Oshiomhole Dismisses Obi's 2027 Threat, Says Public Anger Drove 2023 Votes

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has dismissed suggestions that Peter Obi poses a major political threat to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general election, arguing that the former Labour Party presidential candidate's strong performance in 2023 was largely driven by public frustration rather than personal political strength.

Speaking during an interview on TVC News, the former Edo State governor said Obi emerged from an "unusual situation" created by widespread dissatisfaction with the economic conditions that preceded the 2023 election. According to him, the cash crunch caused by the naira redesign policy and the fuel scarcity experienced during the period fuelled public anger, which translated into electoral support for Obi.

Oshiomhole maintained that many Nigerians were unable to access their own money despite having funds in their bank accounts, forcing them to rely on Point of Sale operators who charged high transaction fees. He argued that the resulting hardship discouraged many voters from supporting the ruling party at the time and contributed significantly to Obi's electoral gains.

The senator also insisted that the policies responsible for the economic difficulties were not part of the APC's political agenda. Recalling conversations with constituents, he said many Nigerians blamed the government for the hardship, but he believes the public's frustration—not Obi's political influence, was the key factor behind the 2023 election outcome.

His remarks come amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general election, with parties and key political figures intensifying campaigns and public debates over the country's leadership and economic direction.