Political economist Professor Pat Utomi has reaffirmed his support for Peter Obi’s presidential ambition ahead of the 2027 general election, but said he would withdraw that support if the former Anambra State governor accepts a vice-presidential position.
Utomi made the position known in a post on his official X account on Thursday, stressing that his support for Obi is specifically tied to a presidential bid.
“Peter Obi has my support for the presidency,” Utomi said.
“But my position is clear, I am not supporting the idea of Peter Obi becoming somebody else’s Vice President.
“The day Peter Obi accepts a Vice Presidential position, I will walk away from his corner. I have said this plainly, and I stand by it,” he added.
Utomi said his position was not about personalities but about the type of leadership he believes Nigeria needs.
“My concern is not about personalities. It is about the kind of leadership Nigeria needs and the direction in which we want our country to go,” he said.
Utomi calls for age limit for political candidates
The political economist also called for a national discussion on the age of politicians seeking executive office.
Utomi proposed limiting presidential and governorship candidates to those aged 70 or below, arguing that the country needs leadership focused on the future.
“I have also argued that we should begin to rethink the age of those seeking executive office. The Nigerian presidency should not become a retirement home for politicians,” he said.
He added that there should be “a serious national conversation” about limiting presidential and gubernatorial candidates to 70 years or below.
According to Utomi, Nigeria should focus on leadership that looks beyond another cycle of political succession.
“These are principles I have stated publicly, and Nigerians should judge them for themselves,” he said.
Utomi’s comments come amid ongoing discussions among opposition politicians and groups over possible alliances and the presidential contest ahead of the 2027 election. (Punch Newspapers)
