The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has launched high-level consultations as he prepares for another shot at the presidency in 2027, with a formal announcement on his political platform expected in November. Obi recently met former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja, seeking his support while persuading him not to join the 2027 contest. Sources revealed that Obi later briefed former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the outcome of the Jonathan talks, appealing for his continued backing. A senior member of Obi’s camp confirmed that the former Anambra governor is resolute about contesting and is working to secure endorsements from influential political figures. “His meeting with Jonathan was to appeal to him not to run but instead to support him. “His meeting with Jonathan was to appeal to him not to run but instead to support him. He believes Jonathan’s support would be a major boost for his chances. Afterwards, he met Obasanjo to brief him and to deepen consultations,” the source said. The ally added that Obi’s official declaration in November would clarify whether he would remain in the Labour Party or switch to the African Democratic Congress, a coalition platform recently embraced by some of his supporters. Another insider revealed that Obi is also planning meetings with former heads of state and traditional rulers before his November declaration. “He still belongs to the Labour Party for now, but in the coming days he will also meet General Ibrahim Babangida, General T.Y. Danjuma, General Yakubu Gowon, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, and others,” the source disclosed. When contacted, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, described Obi’s engagements with former leaders as “friendly consultations.” He maintained that Obi remains in the Labour Party but confirmed that formal clarification on the ADC coalition would be made in November. “These are regular meetings between old friends and statesmen. Obi is still a member of the Labour Party, and any decision about his political platform will be announced in November after full consultations,” Tanko said. Tanko urged Obidient Movement members to remain active, mobilise support, and keep promoting Obi’s agenda. “Everyone should continue to speak about what Peter Obi will do for Nigeria in lifting people out of poverty, improving security, health, and the economy. That’s our focus,” he said. The PUNCH