
LAGOS, May 5, 2025 — Human rights lawyer and political activist Dele Farotimi has declared that he will continue to support former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi if he contests again in the 2027 elections.
Farotimi made the statement during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, where he also criticised what he described as premature political chatter surrounding the next general elections.
“If elections where our votes will count were held today, I would vote for Peter Gregory Obi, unless somebody else enters the race who I believe can do better,” he said. “If it’s still the same line-up as last time, I will definitely be voting for Peter Obi.”
Farotimi praised Obi’s integrity and capacity, noting that while he hopes the former Anambra governor would take bolder policy positions, no other current political figure commands his support. “Frankly speaking, in terms of capacity and integrity, there’s no one else I would support,” he added.
When asked if anything could alter his support, Farotimi acknowledged the possibility, albeit under extreme circumstances. “Something drastic would have to happen for me to decide not to support Peter Obi,” he said. “It might be that he aligns with some objectionable individuals I cannot tolerate — and that’s a real possibility. However, outside of that, there’s no one else.”
Despite reaffirming his backing for Obi, Farotimi dismissed the current focus on 2027 as misplaced. “I actually think our conversations about elections at this point are a disservice to ourselves,” he said. “We really cannot speak of elections in our current circumstances.”
He emphasized that his political views remain rooted in a desire for systemic change and a more just society, expressing hope that Nigeria will eventually reach a point where elections truly reflect the people’s will.