By Chinedu Echianu
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has been cleared to contest the presidential primary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the chairman of the party’s National Screening Committee, Sam Egwu, in a video shared on the party’s official X account.
Obi underwent screening in Abuja on Tuesday as part of preparations for the 2027 presidential race.
Speaking after the exercise, Egwu said the committee confirmed that Obi met all constitutional and legal requirements needed to contest for the presidency on the party’s platform.
According to him, the panel was satisfied with Obi’s compliance with the provisions of the party constitution, the Electoral Act, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.
He added that Obi also provided satisfactory responses to questions raised by members of the screening panel, paving the way for his clearance ahead of the party’s presidential primary, the date of which is expected to be announced later.
Reacting in a post on his official X account, Obi disclosed that the screening lasted more than two and a half hours and involved a detailed verification of his credentials, including academic certificates, NYSC documents, and age declaration papers.
The former Anambra State governor said members of the committee also questioned him on his vision for Nigeria and the leadership direction he believes the country requires.
Obi confirmed that he was subsequently cleared and issued the party’s presidential nomination form, which he had earlier purchased.
He commended the screening committee for conducting what he described as a professional and transparent exercise, while also praising the party leadership for adhering to democratic procedures.
The development comes amid heightened political activities and growing realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, as opposition parties intensify consultations, coalition talks, and preparations for party primaries across the country.
