Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has boldly claimed that Peter Obi — former Labour Party presidential candidate — stands no chance of winning the presidency, even if he swears in a shrine to serve only one term.
Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, Deji Adeyanju argued that the only Southerner capable of defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in an election is former President Goodluck Jonathan, citing Jonathan’s eligibility for just one more term as a potential unifying advantage.
The remarks come after Peter Obi recently expressed willingness to serve only a single term and hand over power to a Northern successor as part of a possible coalition agreement. Alongside Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi, Obi is considered a top contender for the coalition’s presidential ticket, though none have formally declared.
Deji Adeyanju, however, dismissed Obi’s pledge, especially in the context of gaining Northern trust.
“Even if he swears in a shrine, they will not believe him and they will not vote for him,” he said.
He added that no current Southern candidate has the political strength to unseat Tinubu, and urged seasoned politicians like Atiku to consider supporting a younger Northern candidate instead of remaining on the ballot.
“The idea that it must always be me — it doesn’t have to always be you on the stage. You can be off the stage and support somebody else who is standing on the stage,” Adeyanju said pointedly.
The comments have stirred political conversations online, especially among supporters of Peter Obi, with many questioning the activist’s stance and the implications for the 2027 race.
