A former Director of Finance of the Obidient Movement, Arc. Peter Agada, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Labour Party, signaling a political path distinct from the movement associated with the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Agada made his declaration during a visit to the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, at the royal palace in Benue State, where he shared his vision for Nigeria and outlined the policy priorities that would shape his presidential ambition.
Agada Unveils “Labour Direct” Agenda
During the visit, Agada introduced what he described as “Labour Direct,” a governance framework designed to address some of Nigeria’s most pressing national challenges. According to him, the initiative is focused on tackling insecurity, youth unemployment, exchange rate instability, poor infrastructure, and broader governance concerns that continue to affect everyday life across the country.
He explained that the platform is intended to offer practical and measurable solutions rather than rhetoric, stressing that the country requires a more deliberate and strategic approach to leadership.
Security, Jobs and Economic Stability
On the issue of security, Agada said his administration would prioritise a combination of community-driven intelligence gathering and the deployment of modern technology. He argued that strengthening local intelligence networks while embracing innovation would improve national response capacity and help address growing security threats.
He also highlighted job creation as a major pillar of his proposed agenda. According to him, sectors such as agriculture and solid minerals hold enormous potential for employment generation, economic expansion, and improved livelihoods for young Nigerians.
Agada further noted that unlocking these sectors would not only reduce unemployment but also contribute to national productivity and economic stability.
Speaking on social development, Agada called for reforms in both the education and healthcare sectors.
He stressed the need for the country’s educational system to be more closely aligned with the demands of the labour market. In his view, improving skills development and creating stronger links between academic training and industry needs would better prepare young Nigerians for available opportunities.
He also advocated for a more merit-driven public service, arguing that competence and performance should play a greater role in national development.
Why He Joined the Presidential Race
Agada said his decision to seek the presidency was informed by growing concerns over the country’s governance structure and worsening socio-economic conditions.
He maintained that Nigeria needs fresh ideas, stronger institutions, and leadership that can directly confront the challenges affecting citizens across different parts of the country.
His entrance into the race adds a new dimension to political conversations within the Labour Party as attention gradually begins to shift toward the 2027 general election.
Professional Background
Beyond politics, Agada is known in the business community as the founder of Cyrus Group Nigeria. He has also been associated with the Congress of Nigerian Professionals, a platform that has advocated greater participation of professionals in public leadership and national policy discussions.
Och’Idoma Calls for Unity
In his remarks, the Och’Idoma welcomed the growing involvement of professionals in Nigeria’s political space, noting that their participation could contribute fresh perspectives to governance.
However, the monarch expressed concern over internal divisions within the Idoma community. He urged greater unity among his people, emphasizing the importance of cohesion and collective purpose.
While he declined to endorse any political aspiration, the royal father offered prayers for wisdom, guidance, and peace as the political process unfolds.
Agada’s declaration is likely to attract attention within both the Labour Party and the broader Nigerian political landscape. His decision to chart an independent course away from the political tendency linked to Peter Obi may also deepen conversations about the future direction of the party ahead of the next presidential cycle.
With the 2027 elections still some distance away, his emergence signals that political realignments and early positioning may already be underway.
