High-Profile Members Included: Despite the exclusions, the newly released campaign council features heavyweights such as Atiku Abubakar, running mate Rotimi Amaechi, ADC National Chairman David Mark, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Notable Figures on Board: The roster also features former presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, former CBN Deputy Governor Professor Kingsley Moghalu, Senator Dino Melaye, and former presidential aide Lauretta Onochie.

Legal Status Note: El-Rufai, included on the committee, is currently facing trial and remains in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The “Supermarket People” Taunt: Okpebholo criticized aspiring candidates, stating that the president is not a “supermarket man” and mocking the opposition’s ambitions while declaring that Aso Rock is not vacant.

Call to Wait: He advised challengers to wait for their turn, suggesting they only contest if there are no qualified technocrats and noting that Tinubu is actively working to fix deep-seated national issues.

Historical Criticisms: The Edo governor alleged that the same politicians preparing to run against Tinubu in 2027 were responsible for fighting former President Goodluck Jonathan and sabotaging his initiative to build Almajiri schools ahead of the 2015 election.

Warning on Wasted Funds: Okpebholo maintained that Tinubu’s tenure must run its course for eight years and warned prospective opponents against wasting their money on a failed bid, claiming supporters might take their cash without actually voting for them.

No Rift with Soludo: Obi firmly stated that he has no disagreements with Governor Soludo or any other Nigerian governor, noting that he will never seek a governorship seat again under any circumstances.

Call for Free Campaigns: He appealed to governors across the board to allow presidential candidates and contenders from all political parties to campaign freely and without interference in their states.

Clarifying the Debt Figures: Addressing the $123.77 million external facility figure raised by the current administration, Obi rejected the label of “debt left by Peter Obi,” explaining that the funds were primarily World Bank and IFAD development programs negotiated by the Federal Government via subsidiary arrangements.

Contradicting Records: Obi highlighted a major contradiction, pointing out that DMO records placed Anambra’s total external debt at roughly $30 million when he left office in March 2014, and challenged the state government to explain how it arrived at the higher figure. He also emphasized that his administration left office with zero unpaid salaries, gratuities, pensions, or verified contractor debts.