Political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, has issued a strong political warning ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that his support for Peter Obi is conditional.
Utomi stated clearly that he would withdraw his backing for the former Anambra State governor if Obi agrees to run as a vice-presidential candidate under any political arrangement.
According to him, Obi’s political journey and public appeal are built around a presidential ambition, and anything short of that would represent a betrayal of the expectations of millions of supporters.
Utomi Issues Strong Warning on Obi’s Ambition
The respected economist made the remarks on Thursday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, where he spoke candidly about Nigeria’s political direction and leadership choices.
“Peter Obi will contest for the presidency. The day he becomes somebody’s vice president, I will walk away from his corner. I can tell you that for a fact,” Utomi said.
He emphasised that Nigerians, especially the youth, rallied around Obi because he represented a break from traditional political compromises.
Utomi warned that accepting a vice-presidential slot would weaken Obi’s political credibility and disappoint those who see him as a symbol of reform and accountability.
Presidency Should Not Be a Retirement Home
Beyond Obi’s political future, Utomi used the opportunity to criticise what he described as a disturbing trend in Nigerian leadership.
He argued that the presidency has increasingly become a space occupied by aging politicians who lack the physical strength and urgency required to manage the affairs of a complex and demanding nation.
“Something very important for this election to bear in mind, the Nigerian presidency has become a retirement home, where people go for the Nigerian State to pay their medical bills. It is not acceptable,” he said.
Utomi stressed that Nigeria’s challenges require leaders who are energetic, mentally alert, and capable of responding swiftly to national emergencies.
Call for Age Limit in Executive Offices
The political economist further proposed the introduction of age limits for executive offices in the country.
According to him, the responsibilities attached to positions such as president and governor demand a level of stamina that many elderly politicians can no longer provide.
“Nobody over the age of 70 years should run for an executive position whether it be governor or president,” Utomi stated.
He noted that countries making significant progress often prioritise leadership renewal and generational transition.
Older Politicians Can Serve Elsewhere
Utomi clarified that his position was not an attempt to push older politicians entirely out of governance.
He acknowledged that experience still has value, especially in advisory and legislative roles.
“Yes, people can stay in the legislature till their 75, possibly even close to 80, but the Nigerian people must not continue to tolerate presidency being where we keep people who need medical attention,” he added.
He urged political parties to rethink how they recruit candidates and prioritise competence over long-standing political loyalty.
Utomi’s comments come amid growing political realignments ahead of 2027, particularly following Obi’s recent move to the coalition-backed African Democratic Congress.
As debates around leadership, age, and political compromise intensify, his remarks have sparked fresh conversations across political and social circles nationwide.