Pat Utomi
Political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has reaffirmed his support for Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Peter Obi to contest the 2027 presidential election, declaring that he would withdraw his backing if Obi agrees to run as a vice-presidential candidate.
Utomi made his position known in a post shared on Friday, where he said his support for Obi is tied to the former Anambra State governor contesting for Nigeria’s highest office and not serving as another politician’s running mate.
“I have said this before, and I believe it is important to remind Nigerians of my position as we approach 2027,” Utomi wrote.
“Peter Obi has my support for the presidency.”
He added: “But my position is clear, I am not supporting the idea of Peter Obi becoming somebody else’s Vice President.”
Utomi stressed that his position would not change, saying: “The day Peter Obi accepts a Vice Presidential position, I will walk away from his corner. I have said this plainly, and I stand by it.”
According to him, his views are based on principles rather than personal loyalty.
“My concern is not about personalities. It is about the kind of leadership Nigeria needs and the direction in which we want our country to go,” he stated.
The economist also renewed his call for a national conversation on the age of those seeking executive offices in Nigeria.
“I have also argued that we should begin to rethink the age of those seeking executive office. The Nigerian presidency should not become a retirement home for politicians.”
He proposed that the country should consider setting an age limit for presidential and governorship candidates.
“I believe there should be a serious national conversation about limiting presidential and gubernatorial candidates to those aged 70 or below.”
Utomi said Nigeria requires leaders who can focus on the country’s future and drive meaningful change.
“Nigeria needs leadership that is focused on the future, not simply another cycle of political succession.”
He concluded by urging Nigerians to assess his position based on its merits.
“These are principles I have stated publicly, and Nigerians should judge them for themselves.”
Utomi has consistently advocated governance reforms, youth inclusion and issue-based politics. His latest comments come as discussions over possible alliances and party realignments ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum across Nigeria, with political leaders and stakeholders weighing different options for the next presidential contest.
