Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has said Peter Obi’s presidential ambition should be viewed as a national project rather than an ethnic one, as discussions continue over a proposed Obi-Kwankwaso ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News, published on the broadcaster’s official YouTube channel on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Galadima defended the ticket’s national appeal, arguing that it is aimed at uniting Nigerians across regional and ethnic lines.
He dismissed claims that Obi’s candidacy was driven by ethnic considerations, insisting that supporters are promoting inclusive leadership focused on national development.
“For the last year, can you point out to me one Igbo man who has publicly advocated for an Igbo presidency? We are making Peter Obi a Nigerian president, not an Igbo president,” Galadima said.
According to Galadima, the political conversation should centre on national leadership rather than ethnicity. He said presenting Obi as a Nigerian candidate reflects the broader goal of building support across the country’s diverse regions and communities.
He further argued that reducing political contests to ethnic identity distracts from the major challenges confronting the country. Instead, he said Nigeria’s future depends on cooperation, good governance, and inclusive participation.
Galadima reiterated that the proposed Obi-Kwankwaso ticket represents a national political project and expressed confidence that greater public understanding would strengthen support for cross-regional political partnerships ahead of the 2027 general elections.
