I prefer a younger running mate – Peter Obi

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, says he prefers a younger person that is vibrant and independent-minded as his running mate in the 2023 general elections.

He stated this while featuring on Arise TV Morning Show on Wednesday.

His statement came following talks of possible alliance between the former governor of Anambra State and the NNPP’s presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Obi said he would prefer a younger person who had something to offer and could challenge and engage him in constructive argument on matters of national discourse.

But he said consultations were still ongoing about the possibility of picking Director of Publicity and Advocacy of Northern Elders Forum, Dr Hakeem Baba Ahmed, as his vice.

He said, “We are talking to quite a number of people and Hakeem Baba-Ahmed is a capable hand. But I wish I could work with somebody who is younger.

“I prefer younger people who have a lot to offer rather than recycling old hands. I want a competent person and I am building a formidable team.

“I want people who can look me in the eyes and disagree with me during cabinet meetings. People who have their own minds and ideas.”

Kwankwaso on Sunday expressed optimism that the alliance between the LP and the NNPP could happen.

He however said he was facing some challenges in its discussion with the Labour Party as a result of external influences.

Chieftain of the Labour Party, Doyin Okupe on Tuesday declared that there would be no alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso, noting that the discussions about the possibility of a merger had collapsed.