JUST IN: Peter Obi Declares For 2023 Presidential Race

Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, has launched his candidacy for the president in 2023.

During a visit to Anambra traditional rulers on Thursday, Mr Obi made his intentions clear.

“My mission here is straightforward,” Mr Obi added, “to inform you folks as my own dads that I’ll be running for President of Nigeria.”

Mr Obi’s Media Adviser, Mr Valentine Obienyem, had earlier announced Mr Obi’s intention to run to the media.

Mr Obienyem stated on Wednesday, “I can assure you that Obi will speak soon as promised, and when he does, Nigerians will be pleased with what he says.”

Mr Obi’s announcement comes just one day after former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and his running companion for the 2019 general elections announced their intention to compete for president in the 2023 presidential elections. Both Messrs Obi and Abubakar will run for the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) presidential ticket in 2023.

Mr Obi stated his intention to run for president of Nigeria in February, but only provided his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, zones the presidential ticket to the south.

Since the fourth republic, the South-East has failed to produce a president for the country, fueling calls for the job to be zonated to the region.

Following his announcement, Mr Obi will face off against former governors Orji Uzor Kalu, Rochas Okorocha, and ex-Senate President Ayim Pius Ayim, all of whom have expressed interest in becoming Nigeria’s next president.

Bola Tinubu, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Governor Aminu Tambuwal are currently preparing for the 2023 election.