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Tag: Peter Obi

  • Peter Obi Claims Government Is Targeting His Life, Businesses

    Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has alleged that the Federal Government is deliberately frustrating his businesses and personal activities, claiming the actions amount to a personal campaign against him.

    Obi made the remarks during an interview on With Chude, where he spoke about what he described as growing pressure on his private life and means of livelihood.

    ‘They are after my life’

    Expressing his concerns, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate said he believes the government is intentionally making it difficult for him to carry out his legitimate business activities.

    “They are after my life. Every single thing I do for a living, this government is deliberately frustrating it. The government is attacking me personally. They’re not even providing me with things I should be entitled to.”

    Obi, however, did not provide specific examples of the alleged actions or identify the government agencies involved during the interview.

    Political tensions ahead of 2027

    The comments come amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general election, with Obi remaining one of Nigeria’s most prominent opposition figures.

    In recent months, he has repeatedly criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over issues including insecurity, the economy and governance, while calling for reforms to improve the country’s leadership and public institutions.

    Mixed reactions

    Obi’s claims have sparked debate on social media, with supporters describing his remarks as evidence of political intimidation against an opposition leader.

    Others challenged the allegations, urging him to provide evidence to support the claims, while some argued that any grievances should be addressed through the appropriate legal channels.

    As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued any official response to Obi’s allegations.

  • 2027: Peter Obi Believes in Biafra, Is Pursuing Nigeria’s Division, Ali Modu Sheriff Alleges

    Former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff has alleged that the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi is pursuing the division of Nigeria because of his perceived support for the Biafra movement.

    Sheriff made the claim on Monday during an appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television while reacting to Obi’s recent call for President Bola Tinubu to resign over the country’s security and economic challenges.

    Sheriff questions Obi’s stance

    According to Sheriff, Peter Obi has not publicly distanced himself from the Biafra cause.

    “Peter Obi, up to this moment, is pursuing the division of Nigeria because he believes in Biafra,” he said.

    The former governor also claimed Obi has never openly condemned Biafra or the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), insisting the former Anambra governor should clearly state whether he supports Nigeria’s unity.

    ‘Leaders must stand for one Nigeria’

    Sheriff argued that anyone seeking to lead the country must be fully committed to preserving Nigeria’s unity rather than promoting sectional interests.

    “Anybody aspiring to lead Nigeria must be someone who stands for Nigeria, not for any section,” he said.

    The remarks come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with leading opposition figures and members of the ruling party exchanging criticisms over governance, security and the country’s future.

  • Peter Obi Sues Kenneth Okonkwo for ₦8bn Over Defamation Claims

    The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has filed an ₦8 billion defamation suit against his former spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, over allegations made during a television interview. The case was filed at the Anambra State High Court after Okonkwo allegedly failed to retract the claims despite an earlier legal demand.

    Alleged Defamatory Claims

    The dispute stems from comments Okonkwo made during an appearance on Channels Television on June 8, where he alleged that Obi collected ₦10 million each from House of Representatives aspirants and personally selected candidates for federal constituencies in the South-East.

    Following the interview, Obi, through his lawyer, Chief Alex Ejesieme (SAN), issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding a public retraction, apology and ₦5 billion in compensation.

    Okonkwo, however, rejected the demands in a response dated June 16, insisting that he stood by his allegations.

    Obi Seeks ₦8 Billion Damages

    In the suit filed on June 25, Obi described the television interview and subsequent social media posts by Okonkwo as false, malicious, baseless and defamatory.

    He is asking the court to award ₦5 billion as general damages for alleged injury to his reputation, ₦2 billion as aggravated damages for the continued publication of the claims after receiving the pre-action notice, and ₦1 billion as exemplary damages.

    Obi also wants the court to compel Okonkwo to publish an unreserved apology on Channels Television, the station’s YouTube platform, all his social media accounts and in three national newspapers within seven days of judgment.

    The suit further seeks an order directing the deletion of the alleged defamatory publications, a perpetual injunction restraining Okonkwo from making similar claims in the future, the cost of the suit and 10 per cent annual post-judgment interest on any monetary award.

    Former Ally Denies Allegations

    The court documents show that the writ of summons has been endorsed for service on Okonkwo in Enugu State.

    A key part of the controversy centres on claims that House of Representatives aspirant Obunike Ohaegbu told Okonkwo that Obi demanded ₦10 million from aspirants.

    However, Ohaegbu publicly denied making the allegation.

    Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 9, he said, “Peter Obi never told me to pay ₦10 million. I never told Kenneth Okonkwo that Peter Obi, in any way, told me to pay ₦10 million.”

    He also denied accusing the NDC South-East caucus of bribery or claiming that Obi compiled candidates’ names at a hotel in Abuja.

    Political Fallout

    Obi and Okonkwo were close political associates during the 2023 presidential election when the actor-turned-politician served as Obi’s spokesperson in the Labour Party.

    The two later joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of preparations for the 2027 elections before Obi moved to the NDC, where he emerged as the party’s presidential candidate. Since then, Okonkwo has become one of Obi’s strongest critics.

  • Peter Obi Faces Tough Questions on Security, 2023 Election Claim in Viral Interview

    Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has defended his record in public office, restated his claim of winning the 2023 presidential election, and outlined his plans for Nigeria if elected president in 2027.

    Obi spoke during a live interview on the Nevon HQ Blackbox podcast hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni on Tuesday, where he addressed issues ranging from governance and security to economic development and national unity.

    Obi Defends Record as Anambra Governor

    The former Anambra State governor highlighted what he described as key achievements during his time in office, particularly in education, healthcare and fiscal management.

    According to him, his administration improved educational standards, expanded healthcare facilities and invested in human capital development while maintaining prudent management of public resources.

    Obi said his performance in Anambra demonstrates his ability to deliver results and manage government funds effectively.

    Revisits 2023 Election Claim

    During the interview, Obi reiterated his long-held position that he won the 2023 presidential election despite the declaration of President Bola Tinubu as the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    He also confirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the NDC platform.

    “I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi said.

    The former Labour Party presidential candidate maintained that his political ambition is driven by a desire to improve the country’s economic and social conditions.

    Outlines Vision for Nigeria

    Obi said his vision for Nigeria focuses on poverty reduction, national unity, improved education and economic growth.

    He promised to boost power generation to 10,000 megawatts and strengthen agriculture as part of efforts to improve food security and create jobs.

    According to him, these goals can be achieved through efficient governance, investment in human capital and stronger anti-corruption measures.

    Speaks on Insecurity

    Addressing insecurity, Obi said his administration would combine dialogue with firm action against criminal groups.

    “In uniting the country, anybody who wants peace, I will talk with him, I will negotiate with him. Anybody who wants war, we’ll go to war,” he said.

    He added that individuals willing to abandon violence should be given an opportunity to reform and reintegrate into society.

    Obi, however, declined to provide detailed operational plans for tackling insecurity, saying the focus should remain on broader strategies for restoring peace and stability.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Interview

    The interview generated varied reactions across social media platforms.

    Supporters praised Obi’s vision and commitment to governance reforms, while critics questioned some of his policy proposals and argued that he was not sufficiently detailed on security matters.

    Obi also dismissed allegations of financial impropriety raised by some former associates, insisting that anyone with evidence should present it in court.

    The interview comes as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general election, with Obi remaining one of the leading opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling APC.

  • Peter Obi Raises Alarm Over Nigeria’s Rising Debt Profile, Questions Borrowing Transparency

    The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as excessive borrowing by the Federal Government, alleging that Nigeria’s debt profile has climbed to about N200 trillion within three years.

    Obi made the claims in a statement shared on his verified X account, where he questioned the transparency and accountability surrounding the utilisation of borrowed funds.

    Concerns Over Rising Debt

    He alleged that Nigeria’s total debt has increased by over N100 trillion under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, comparing it with borrowing levels recorded under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Obi described the trend as unsustainable, warning that it could place additional pressure on the country’s economy and future generations.

    Borrowing Targets and Fiscal Questions

    Citing data from the Budget Office of the Federation, Obi claimed the government borrowed about N11.89 trillion between January and September 2025, exceeding its projected target of N10.34 trillion.

    He questioned the rationale behind the additional borrowing, arguing that such deviations should require public explanation and scrutiny.

    Questions on Capital Spending

    The former Anambra State governor also claimed that only a fraction of the borrowed funds was directed towards capital projects within the same period.

    He said about N3.10 trillion was allocated to capital expenditure, raising concerns over how the remaining funds were utilised.

    According to him, the gap between borrowing and infrastructure spending raises accountability questions that Nigerians deserve answers to.

    Call for Accountability

    Obi further questioned what became of the unaccounted portion of the borrowed funds, insisting that transparency is essential in public financial management.

    He called for greater scrutiny of government borrowing and expenditure practices.

    The Federal Government has not responded directly to the specific allegations at the time of filing this report.

    Ongoing Debt Debate

    Nigeria’s debt profile continues to generate national debate, with supporters of government borrowing arguing it is necessary for development financing, while critics warn of long-term fiscal risks.

    The discussion remains central to ongoing conversations about economic reforms and public accountability.

  • Obi Warns Against Ethnic Profiling, Defends Fulani Community

    The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as growing ethnic profiling targeting the Fulani community and other ethnic groups in Nigeria.

    Obi made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X account on Monday, where he said Nigerians must stop linking crime to ethnicity.

    Obi Speaks on Ethnic Stereotyping

    The former Anambra State governor said he has personally experienced stereotypes and labelling because of his Igbo identity, adding that many Nigerians face similar treatment.

    According to him, such experiences show a wider national problem where individuals are judged based on ethnicity rather than personal conduct.

    He also expressed concern about the unfair treatment of ordinary Fulani people who are often associated with crimes they have no connection to.

    “Crime Has No Ethnicity”

    Obi stressed that criminals should be identified by their actions and not their ethnic backgrounds.

    “A thief is a thief, a terrorist is a terrorist, and a kidnapper is a kidnapper,” he said, adding that offenders must be held accountable under the law regardless of origin.

    He argued that every ethnic group in Nigeria has its own culture and contributions, warning that crime should never be generalised or attributed to entire communities.

    Reference to Global Civil Rights Struggles

    Drawing comparisons with the civil rights movement in the United States, Obi referenced Martin Luther King Jr.’s call for people to be judged based on character rather than race.

    He said Nigeria must embrace similar values of fairness, justice and mutual respect to strengthen national unity.

    Call for National Unity

    Obi urged Nigerians to reject narratives that promote ethnic blame, warning that such attitudes deepen division and weaken social cohesion.

    He called for greater appreciation of Nigeria’s diversity and renewed commitment to justice and national integration.

    The statement has added to ongoing conversations around insecurity, ethnic relations and national unity in the country.

  • Obi Defends Adeboye Amid Youth Backlash Over Tinubu Protest Calls

    Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised Nigerian youths attacking the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over claims that he has not led protests against President Bola Tinubu.

    Obi said it was wrong to transfer political responsibilities to the cleric, warning that such narratives could fuel religious tension and division in the country.

    The former Anambra State governor made his position known in a post shared on his 𝕏 handle on Wednesday.

    Warning against divisive narratives

    Obi said some political actors deliberately exploit sensitive issues when they are unable to compete based on ideas, performance, or vision.

    He added that many Nigerians often get drawn into narratives that are designed to create suspicion and disunity among citizens.

    “Today, I see similar efforts emerging again, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated ways. Narratives are planted, amplified, and circulated, often by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a worthy cause, without recognising the broader agenda behind such campaigns,” he said.

    Defence of Adeboye

    Obi defended Adeboye, describing him as a respected faith leader who has consistently preached peace, unity, and reconciliation.

    He said it was unfair to expect the 84-year-old cleric to take on roles that belong to younger and more politically active citizens.

    “At 84 years of age, it would be unfair for young and able-bodied Nigerians to transfer to him responsibilities that properly belong to them,” Obi stated.

    Call to young Nigerians

    Obi urged young Nigerians to take responsibility for driving national change, saying the task of reforming the country rests largely on their shoulders.

    He encouraged them to focus on leadership, civic engagement, and constructive political participation rather than allow themselves to be used for divisive narratives.

    The statement comes amid ongoing debates on the role of religious leaders in political discourse and rising public frustration over governance and accountability in Nigeria.

  • Peter Obi Appeals for Release of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren, Cites Governance Failures

    Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of schoolchildren kidnapped in Oyo State to release them immediately, describing their ordeal as a painful reflection of the country’s deepening insecurity.

    In a statement on Wednesday, Obi said he was devastated after seeing images of the abducted children, whose bodies reportedly showed signs of severe flogging and abuse while in captivity.

    Obi Expresses Shock Over Children’s Condition

    The former Anambra State governor said the condition of the children highlights the alarming security situation in Nigeria and the dangers facing young people across the country.

    “I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are, as seen from their flagellated bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” he said.

    Obi added that the incident reinforced concerns he has repeatedly raised about the long-term consequences of societal neglect and poor governance.

    Links Insecurity to Leadership Challenges

    According to Obi, many of Nigeria’s present challenges are the result of years of poor leadership and policy failures.

    “I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow. When I first began making that statement, some of these children were not even born,” he stated.

    He argued that the suffering of the abducted pupils demonstrates how governance failures eventually affect future generations.

    The former presidential candidate also reiterated his concerns about public borrowing, warning that decisions taken today could impose heavy burdens on younger Nigerians in years to come.

    “This is a classic example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the abusers are gone,” he said.

    Direct Appeal to Kidnappers

    Obi urged those holding the children captive to consider the innocence of their victims and the pain being experienced by their families.

    “Remember that these are innocent children, sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity,” he said.

    He stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify inflicting suffering on innocent children.

    “No grievance, no hardship, no justification can ever outweigh the sanctity of a child’s life and innocence,” Obi added.

    Calls for Immediate Release

    Obi concluded his message with an emotional appeal for the children’s safe return.

    “I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to society to reunite with their families.”

  • Datti Baba-Ahmed Says He Joined Peter Obi in 2023 Out of Sympathy After Failed Alliances

    Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has revealed that his decision to run alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election was partly driven by sympathy, following what he described as failed alliance attempts by the former presidential candidate.

    Baba-Ahmed made the disclosure during an interview on Symfoni, where he spoke about the political dynamics that shaped the Labour Party’s 2023 ticket.

    Failed Political Alliances

    According to him, Peter Obi approached three influential politicians in 2022 in an attempt to build broader support ahead of the election, but the efforts did not succeed.

    He said the situation influenced his personal decision to step in as Obi’s running mate, describing it as a response shaped by both sympathy and concern for the country’s political direction.

    Baba-Ahmed, however, declined to disclose the identities of the politicians involved or the reasons they reportedly turned down the offer.

    Clarifies Political Independence

    The former senator also dismissed suggestions that he is politically tied to Obi or obligated to follow him into any future political arrangement, including any emerging coalition platforms.

    He stressed that his decision in 2023 was personal and based on his interpretation of Nigeria’s political situation at the time.

    Baba-Ahmed added that while he worked with Obi during the election, he remains an independent political actor with no binding political obligation to the former Anambra governor.

    The comments add a new layer to ongoing discussions around the 2023 Labour Party presidential campaign and internal dynamics within Nigeria’s opposition politics.

  • Sola Kuti Compares Peter Obi to Buhari, Says Nigeria’s Problem Is the System

    Media personality Sola Kuti has argued that Nigeria’s political and economic problems are driven more by structural issues than by the individuals elected into public office.

    Speaking during a discussion on national politics, Kuti cautioned Nigerians against believing that a change of leadership alone would automatically solve the country’s challenges.

    Comparison Between Peter Obi and Buhari

    Kuti said the enthusiasm currently surrounding Peter Obi reminds him of the optimism many Nigerians expressed before Muhammadu Buhari assumed office in 2015.

    According to him, Buhari was widely viewed as a leader who would tackle corruption and address governance failures, but many of those expectations were not realised.

    “Peter Obi, for me, is just another Buhari,” Kuti said.

    Focus on the System, Not Individuals

    The media personality maintained that Nigeria’s biggest obstacle is its governance structure, which he described as deeply flawed.

    He argued that even leaders with good intentions often struggle to deliver meaningful reforms because of institutional and systemic limitations.

    “The point that I’m trying to make is that if the system is broken, there’s nothing you can do when you get there,” he said.

    Kuti added that Nigerians often focus too much on personalities while ignoring the structural problems affecting governance.

    Lessons From Buhari’s Presidency

    Referencing Buhari’s years in office, Kuti said the former president’s experience demonstrates how difficult it is for any leader to succeed within a dysfunctional system.

    He noted that despite his personal reservations about Buhari, he was surprised by how little was achieved compared to the expectations many Nigerians had.

    “No matter how much I didn’t like Buhari, I realized that a soul like him with such principles, in quotes, could go into government and achieve absolutely nothing,” he stated.

    Call for Institutional Reforms

    Kuti concluded that Nigeria’s future depends more on fixing its institutions than on changing political leaders.

    According to him, sustainable progress will require reforms that strengthen governance structures and reduce the constraints that often limit elected officials.