Former Anambra State Governor and Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has responded to criticism from his former 2023 running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, by citing his record in Anambra State as evidence of his ability to improve Nigeria if elected in 2027.

Obi spoke in an Arise News interview clip that circulated on Monday, September 7, 2026, after Datti questioned whether opposition candidates, including Obi, could deliver meaningful change if elected president.

Obi Cites Anambra Record

Responding to the criticism, Obi pointed to his tenure as governor of Anambra State and argued that his performance there showed what he could achieve at the national level.

“I passed through Anambra State, and I improved the state in critical areas of development. And I can do the same thing in Nigeria,” Obi said.

He said his administration would focus on bringing “civility and order in governance” while reducing what he described as the “irresponsible” cost of running government.

Obi also listed fighting corruption and waste, strengthening law and order, conducting credible elections and restoring Nigeria’s honour and respect among his priorities.

Obi Lists 2027 Priorities

The NDC candidate said he would also prioritise national unity, security, healthcare, education and poverty reduction if given the opportunity to lead the country.

His response came after Datti Baba-Ahmed questioned the capacity of opposition politicians seeking to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Datti Criticises Opposition Candidates

Datti made the comments during an appearance on the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye. The interview was posted over the weekend.

While advising Tinubu to prepare to hand over power, Datti argued that none of the politicians challenging the president would improve Nigeria, claiming that they had “all been in bed together at some point or another.”

When asked specifically whether he included Obi among those politicians, Datti replied, “Including Peter Obi, I’m sorry to say.”

He also referred to previous advice he had given Obi over some of his political decisions, including the former governor’s alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Obi and Datti’s Political Differences

Obi and Datti contested the 2023 presidential election together on the Labour Party platform. Their relationship has since come under public scrutiny as both men have taken different positions amid the political realignments ahead of the 2027 election.

Obi is now the presidential candidate of the NDC, while Datti’s comments have added to the growing debate over the opposition’s readiness to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027.

The exchange has generated reactions online, with the Arise News clip of Obi responding to Datti circulating widely across social media platforms.