Political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, has said he will no longer support Peter Obi if the former Anambra State governor accepts a vice-presidential position ahead of the 2027 general election.
Utomi made this known on Thursday during an interview on Politics Today, a political programme aired on Channels Television. He stated clearly that his support for Obi is tied to the former governor contesting for the presidency and not settling for a secondary role.
According to Utomi, “Peter Obi will contest for the presidency. The day he becomes somebody’s vice president, I will walk away from his corner.” He added that his position on the matter is firm and non-negotiable.
Beyond the issue of party politics, Utomi also criticised what he described as the increasing practice of turning the presidency into a safe space for ageing politicians. He argued that the country’s highest office should not be used as a place for leaders who are no longer physically strong enough to handle its demands.
He said the Nigerian presidency has slowly become a place where elderly leaders go while the state takes care of their medical needs, a situation he described as unacceptable for a country facing serious challenges.
Utomi further called for a clear age limit for executive positions such as president and governor. According to him, such roles require both physical energy and sharp thinking to deal with national issues effectively.
He stated that no individual above the age of 70 should be allowed to contest for executive office, stressing that leadership at that level demands strength and alertness.
While making this argument, Utomi clarified that older politicians still have a role to play in governance. He noted that they can continue to serve in the legislature, where experience and long-term thinking are more valuable and less physically demanding.
His comments come at a time when political activities are beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 general election. This follows Peter Obi’s recent move to the African Democratic Congress, a party now linked to a wider opposition coalition seeking to challenge the ruling party at the federal level.
Utomi’s remarks have added to the growing debate around leadership, age, and political strategy as Nigeria prepares for another election cycle.