Prominent human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, has declared that former presidential candidate Peter Obi remains his preferred choice for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027—should he decide to run again.
Farotimi made the statement during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, where he cautioned against what he described as an unhelpful focus on the 2027 elections at this point in the country’s political climate.
“If we were to have a free and fair election today, and the same candidates from the last election were on the ballot, my vote would still go to Peter Gregory Obi,” he said.
He emphasized that only the emergence of a more competent and trustworthy candidate would make him reconsider his stance.
“Unless someone more capable and credible comes forward, I see no reason to change my support,” he added.
Farotimi noted that while he would like to see Obi take a firmer stance on policy matters, he still views him as the most viable option in terms of competence and integrity.
“My only reservation would be if he chooses to associate with individuals I consider morally unacceptable. That could cause me to reconsider. But otherwise, he’s still my candidate,” he said.
The lawyer criticized early political conversations centered on the next general election, arguing that such discussions are premature given the country’s current state.
“Talking about elections now does us no good. We’re not in the right condition to have that conversation,” he asserted.
Farotimi concluded by saying his continued backing of Obi stems from a sincere desire to see the nation take a better path.