The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is increasingly unsettled by the growing influence of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to CUPP National Secretary, Peter Ameh, Tinubu and his team see Obi as the most significant threat to their hold on power and are reportedly exploring ways to prevent him from contesting.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, Ameh said the coalition’s claims are based on deliberate research, private engagements, and data collected across various regions—not mere rumors.
“Our findings show that the presidency is more focused on Peter Obi than any other prospective candidate in 2027. Internal discussions within government circles confirm that he is seen as the only figure capable of disrupting their plans,” Ameh said.
He pointed to the continuous online attacks against Obi by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga as evidence of the administration’s concern. Ameh emphasized that government-aligned voices rarely discuss other potential contenders like Atiku Abubakar or Rotimi Amaechi, highlighting the unique attention Obi is receiving.
“Go and count how many times Bayo Onanuga has posted about Peter Obi on Twitter. Tinubu is not afraid of Atiku or Rotimi Amaechi—they know it. But Obi generates genuine fear,” he said.
Ameh also cited Obi’s performance in the 2023 general elections as a reason for the ruling party’s anxiety. Despite facing the full weight of federal resources, Obi secured victories in several states and even won the Federal Capital Territory, underlining his growing political strength.
“It took Peter Obi to garner about 1 million votes, reduced to 500,000 due to manipulations, and to defeat the APC in the FCT. This shows why the government is focused on him,” Ameh added.
The CUPP secretary concluded that the administration’s alleged efforts to undermine Obi signal rising tension as the 2027 election cycle approaches.