Nigeria’s political scene is heating up ahead of 2027, as Peter Obi and a delegation of South-East leaders held a closed-door meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. The consultation signals early strategic positioning as parties and power blocs begin quiet alignments. The meeting, held privately, showing rising political calculations ahead of the next general election cycle. It also signals renewed engagement with influential elder statesmen.

The delegation included notable figures such as Okwesilieze Nwodo, Achike Udenwa, and Victor Umeh. Obi, who is already positioning himself for a 2027 presidential bid, is reportedly considering running under the African Democratic Congress.

The meeting focused on consultations rather than endorsements, with Obi emphasizing the importance of dialogue at this stage. The move highlights efforts to consolidate regional and national support early.

Speaking after the meeting, Obi said Jonathan advocated for free, fair, and credible elections, while rejecting any drift toward a one-party system. He described Jonathan as a committed democrat and stressed the value of guidance from elder leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida.

Obi clarified that no endorsement was sought, noting he would return for such discussions once he officially becomes a candidate. The emphasis, he said, remains on preserving Nigeria’s democratic integrity.

Meanwhile, Gbenga Hashim has urged the labour movement to take a frontline role in defending democracy. During a meeting with Joe Ajaero, he warned of a potential slide toward authoritarianism under Bola Tinubu.

Hashim stressed that workers have historically shaped Nigeria’s political direction and must remain active in safeguarding democratic values. These parallel developments highlight intensifying concerns and strategic maneuvering ahead of 2027.