The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has expressed renewed concern about his personal safety ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying he is uncertain whether he will be alive when Nigerians head to the polls.
Obi made the statement during an interview with Arise TV on Thursday while discussing the political atmosphere ahead of the election and the importance of maintaining peace throughout the electoral process.
The former Anambra State governor said he had faced petitions and investigations in different places but did not disclose details about the complaints or the investigations he referenced.
“As I speak to you, I have also been petitioned, I’ve been investigated everywhere. Like I said before, I’m not even sure whether I’ll still be alive at the end of this,” he said.
Obi said the developments had increased his concerns about his safety as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
He said he was depending on God for protection, noting that he remained uncertain about what could happen to him.
“I’m praying to God for His protection because at this stage, I’m not sure what is happening,” he added.
Obi calls for tolerance among politicians
The NDC candidate also appealed to state governors to allow presidential candidates and other political aspirants to campaign freely in their states, regardless of their political affiliations.
According to Obi, governors have the right to support candidates of their choice, but such support should not be used to prevent other contenders from seeking votes within their states.
He warned that political rivalry should not become a source of division or hostility among Nigerians and urged politicians to prioritise peace as the 2027 elections approach.
“Some of them will be campaigning for presidency tomorrow. They will be campaigning for other offices tomorrow. Let’s have peace,” he said.
Obi recalled his time as Anambra governor, saying his administration allowed opposition politicians to campaign in the state even when they were working against candidates he supported.
He cited the experience as an example of the level of political tolerance he believes should be encouraged ahead of the next general election.
Obi had earlier expressed similar fears
The former governor had also raised concerns about his survival ahead of the 2027 election during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo in July.
At the time, Obi said he was uncertain whether he would live long enough to participate in the election.
“Not even a candidate. I might not even be alive. I’m telling you,” he said.
During that interview, Obi also alleged that actions by the Federal Government had affected his activities and business interests.
The allegations were not accompanied by evidence during the interview, while the Federal Government had not accepted the claims.
His latest comments on Arise TV mark another occasion on which Obi has publicly expressed concern about his safety as political preparations for the 2027 presidential election gather momentum.
