2027: You Cannot Rule Nigeria If You Can’t Manage A Party – Hamzat Fires At Peter Obi

Lagos State Deputy Governor and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Obafemi Hamzat, has questioned Peter Obi’s political leadership record while discussing the qualities he believes are important for anyone seeking to govern Nigeria.

Hamzat made the remarks at the Gbaja Mega Empowerment Programme organised by Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, for residents of the Surulere Federal Constituency in Lagos. The programme featured the distribution of cash, vehicles and other forms of assistance to beneficiaries.

During his address, Hamzat spoke about the importance of party organisation and leadership, drawing a comparison between Obi’s political journey and President Bola Tinubu’s involvement in building the APC.

Hamzat argued that politicians seeking to lead the country should also demonstrate the ability to manage and develop a political organisation.

He referred to Obi’s movement across political platforms, mentioning his previous association with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party and African Democratic Congress (ADC), before his current affiliation with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Recent reports confirm that Obi joined the NDC in May 2026 and was subsequently affirmed as the party’s 2027 presidential candidate.

Hamzat contrasted Obi’s political history with Tinubu’s involvement in the development of the APC, arguing that the President had remained committed to building the party.

“You cannot rule a country if you cannot manage the affairs of a political party,” Hamzat said.

He added that Obi had moved between several political parties, while Tinubu had been involved in building the APC into its current structure.

The comments come as political parties and candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections. The NDC has recently announced plans to inaugurate its Presidential Campaign Council, with Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, expected to nominate key officials in consultation with the party leadership.

Hamzat’s remarks therefore form part of the increasingly active political exchanges among major parties and their candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.