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Lagos APC Slams Peter Obi Over Criticism of Tinubu’s Vacation, Urges ‘Responsible Opposition’

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, urging him to adopt a more constructive approach to opposition politics and refrain from what it described as “habitual knee-jerk reactions” to national developments. The warning was contained in a statement released by the APC’s Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, in response to Obi’s recent remarks questioning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s short private vacation and its alleged impact on national security. Oladejo criticized Obi’s frequent public comments on national issues, accusing him of seeking “cheap relevance” and portraying himself as a moral authority while offering little in the way of substantive policy contributions. “Must Peter Obi comment on everything?” Oladejo asked. “Nigerians are not deceived. His constant moralising of the President’s every move is less about patriotism and more about political desperation.” He described Obi’s approach as reactionary and populist, reducing complex governance issues to “social media talking points,” rather than engaging in serious, solutions-oriented discourse. The APC spokesman also defended President Tinubu’s decision to take a brief vacation, insisting that the president remains fully in charge of the country’s affairs. “In modern governance, leaders remain in constant communication with their security and intelligence teams, regardless of location. Mr. Obi knows this, but prefers posturing over pragmatism,” Oladejo stated. He further cautioned Obi’s aides to carefully assess the former governor’s public engagements, warning that his pattern of criticism may harm his image as a credible opposition figure. “Leadership requires knowing not only what to say, but also when and how to say it. Constant agitation and reflexive commentary do not equal leadership—they undermine it,” Oladejo said. The APC reiterated its commitment to delivering on national priorities including economic recovery, national security, and public sector reforms, while dismissing Obi’s contributions as lacking depth. “Peter Obi’s comments amount to noise, not leadership or patriotism,” Oladejo concluded. “If he has meaningful contributions to make, let him present them responsibly. Otherwise, silence is an honourable option. For us in the APC, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, our focus remains on governance, not political theatre.”

I’ll Vote For Tinubu If Opposition Presents Peter Obi in 2027 – Deji Adeyanju

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

Human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, has declared that he would cast his vote for President Bola Tinubu if the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chooses Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in 2027. “God forbid that I support APC. If the opposition presents Peter Obi, I will vote for Tinubu,” Adeyanju said on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, when asked if he was deliberately seeking to discredit Obi. The rift between Adeyanju and Obi has, in recent times, escalated into a legal confrontation after the 64-year-old politician, through his lawyers, threatened to sue the activist for alleged defamatory remarks on social media and in media interviews. Adeyanju shrugged off the legal notice, saying he was ready to face Obi in court. He accused the former Anambra governor of fostering a hostile political climate, citing the conduct of some “Obidient” supporters online. He said, “We cannot have a man who leads a mob that terrorises people online and cannot tolerate criticism, who calls people all sorts of names. Anybody who cannot support their candidate is seen as an enemy of Nigeria or has been paid to do so. That is not democracy.” The activist also questioned Obi’s democratic track record, contrasting it with his own history of activism. “What sacrifices has he made for democracy? Many of us have put our lives on the line at great personal cost. We must sanitise our polity. We cannot have a country where people who terrorise others online dictate the tone of political discourse,” he argued. Speaking on his past choices at the polls, Adeyanju said he had always supported credible candidates. “In my opinion, I have never voted for a bad candidate. In 1999, I voted for Olusegun Obasanjo. In 2011, I voted for Goodluck Jonathan. In 2015, I voted for Jonathan again, against the so-called lovers of democracy who wanted Muhammadu Buhari,” he said.

Tensions Rise Within ADC Coalition as Atiku, Obi Stall on Membership Ahead of 2027 Elections

Fola Badmus4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

With the 2027 general elections drawing closer, uncertainty looms within the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition as the much-anticipated membership of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra State Governor Peter Obi remains unresolved, casting doubt on the coalition’s momentum and strategic direction. Multiple high-level sources within the coalition, who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the delay by Atiku, Obi, and other political heavyweights in formally joining the ADC has stalled the party’s growth and weakened its position as a unified alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Further complicating the party’s outlook are administrative and legal setbacks, including the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) delayed recognition of Senator David Mark as ADC National Chairman. Legal disputes and limited funding have also reportedly hampered operational activities across the country. Despite growing concerns, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, insisted the coalition remains united and on course. “We are not disturbed over Atiku and Obi’s delayed membership. Nothing has changed; both of them are very much with the coalition,” he told Sunday PUNCH. “Anyone telling you otherwise is misinformed.” The coalition, unveiled in Abuja on March 20, was established to form a credible opposition front ahead of 2027. The initiative gained national attention following a July 1 meeting where Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other key figures endorsed the ADC as the coalition’s political platform. The party is currently under the interim leadership of Senator David Mark and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary. However, several insiders say the lack of formal membership from Atiku and Obi has discouraged other potential entrants and hampered the coalition’s credibility. “Members of the party, especially the National Working Committee, are seriously concerned,” a senior coalition official told Sunday PUNCH. “Atiku left the PDP over a month ago but has yet to officially join us. Obi also hasn’t made a move. Their absence is stalling the momentum and discouraging others from coming onboard.” The official added that while coalition leaders remain committed to challenging the APC in 2027, doubts persist over whether the current structure is strong enough to mount a serious challenge without firm commitments from major players. “If these figures had joined, the ADC would already have gathered significant momentum. Their presence would have brought resources, credibility, and mass followership. For now, things remain uncertain.” Another top coalition figure linked some of the party’s setbacks to political interference and unresolved legal issues. “INEC’s delay in recognising David Mark’s leadership and ongoing court cases—some believed to be government-sponsored—are slowing us down,” the source alleged. Despite the turbulence, he expressed confidence in the party’s long-term viability. “The ADC remains a formidable platform. Nigerians are gradually accepting it as a credible alternative to the APC. We believe Atiku and Obi will join fully in due time.” In response to enquiries, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, affirmed the former Vice President’s commitment to the coalition and confirmed that steps toward formal registration with the ADC are underway. “Atiku is not contemplating leaving the coalition,” Ibe said. “The party is being established across the country, and registration is ongoing. His membership is a process, and it’s in motion. He remains committed to the coalition’s vision to rescue Nigeria.” Efforts to reach Peter Obi’s associate and Obidient Movement coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, for comment were unsuccessful as calls to his phone went unanswered. As the opposition navigates these internal hurdles, political analysts warn that time is running short for the coalition to solidify its base, unify its ranks, and present a cohesive challenge in 2027.

Middle Belt Forum Backs Peter Obi’s One-Term Pledge, Obidient Movement Gains Ground in Ibadan

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has endorsed Labour Party’s 2027 presidential hopeful, Mr. Peter Obi, for pledging to serve only one term if elected, describing him as a man of integrity who can be trusted to honour his word. In a statement, MBF National President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, said the forum believes Obi’s track record shows he would keep his promise “to the letter” and not use it as a political ploy. “We believe Peter Obi is a man of honour and, if he wins, he will keep to his promises,” Pogu said. He stressed that term limits should ideally be decided by the constitution and the electorate, but maintained that the Middle Belt had confidence in Obi’s sincerity. Meanwhile, Obi’s support base, the Obidient Movement, is gaining momentum in Oyo State. At the weekend, members gathered for the Oyo State Obidient Conference themed “Going Forward 2027: A New Nigeria is Possible” at the Empowerment Centre, Ring Road, Ibadan. The event attracted party loyalists, political analysts, and grassroots organisers. Delivering the keynote address, Professor Francis Egbokhare of the University of Ibadan lamented Nigeria’s underperformance despite abundant talent. He described the nation as “a giant lying prostrate, trampled by dwarfs,” criticising poor governance, propaganda-driven politics, and lack of strategic thinking. “The first order of business is to restructure the mindset, because to win elections without it is to perpetuate the same failures,” he warned, urging the movement to adopt disciplined execution, integrity, and a focus on human development. Obidient Movement National Coordinator, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, dismissed rumours of Obi leaving the Labour Party, confirming his candidacy for 2027 on a single-term agenda. “If elected, he will provide Nigeria with a single term of purposeful leadership. Many problems can be resolved within one year if we focus on essential human development,” Yunusa said. Oyo State Coordinator and convener, Mr. Ayo Akinyemi, called the conference a unifying moment for members, urging them to remain committed to Obi’s vision for national transformation.

Nigerian Senate Approves Additional $21 Billion in External Loans, Pushing Public Debt Toward N200 Trillion

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

The Nigerian Senate has approved an additional external borrowing package of $21 billion, €2.2 billion, and ¥15 billion for the 2025–2026 fiscal cycle, further raising concerns over the nation’s rising debt profile. In addition, a domestic bond issuance of N750.98 billion and a €65 million grant were also approved. This latest approval could push Nigeria’s total public debt to approximately N187 trillion, up from N149.39 trillion as recorded in the first quarter of 2025. With this trend, experts warn that the country’s total debt may exceed N200 trillion by the end of the year. Before the recent GDP rebasing, Nigeria’s gross domestic product was estimated at N269.2 trillion (approximately $180 billion), meaning the approved loans represent nearly 70% of the country’s GDP. Even with the rebased GDP of N372.8 trillion ($243.7 billion), Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio would still stand at 50.16%—the highest in the nation’s history. Despite the significant increase in borrowing—N27.72 trillion year-on-year and N4.72 trillion quarter-on-quarter—critics argue that these debts have yet to yield tangible improvements in key sectors such as education, healthcare, power, and national security. Nigeria continues to rank low on major human development indicators. Education remains underfunded, healthcare is largely inaccessible to the poor, and insecurity persists. Between May 29, 2023, and May 29, 2025, over 10,217 Nigerians were killed and 672 villages sacked, even as security spending rose from N2.98 trillion in 2023 to N4.91 trillion in 2025. Infrastructure development has also lagged, with 135,000km out of the country’s 195,000km road network remaining unpaved, making transportation across many regions nearly impossible. The power sector remains in crisis, supplying less than 5,000 megawatts of electricity to over 200 million citizens. Meanwhile, poverty and hunger are deepening. Over 133 million Nigerians (63%) are now classified as multi-dimensionally poor, and a worsening malnutrition crisis has claimed the lives of 652 children in Northern Nigeria, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Katsina State has been identified as one of the worst-hit regions. Despite the country’s abundant natural and human resources, critics say a persistent leadership failure has exacerbated Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. There are growing calls for greater transparency and accountability in how public funds and loans are utilized. “Borrowing is not inherently bad,” one policy analyst noted, “but it must be tied to productive investments with measurable outcomes. Unfortunately, what we see is reckless borrowing without accountability, mortgaging the future of young and unborn Nigerians.” Analysts are urging the government to adopt a more disciplined economic strategy—cutting the cost of governance, plugging financial leakages, and prioritizing investments in human capital and productivity. “It’s time to end fiscal indiscipline and build a New Nigeria,” the analyst added. “One where leadership is responsible, development is people-centered, and every kobo borrowed delivers measurable impact for sustainable and inclusive growth.”

Oshiomhole Clarifies Comment on Peter Obi’s Visit to Edo, Says Media Exaggerated Narrative

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

By: Kamal YalwaJuly 26, 2025 Former Governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has addressed the controversy surrounding remarks about Peter Obi’s recent visit to a state-owned facility in Edo, stating that the media exaggerated the incident. Speaking during a public engagement, Oshiomhole said there was no personal rift between him and the Labour Party presidential candidate, whom he described as a former colleague and someone he still holds in high regard despite their differing political views. “I think the media tried to exaggerate it,” Oshiomhole said. “You know, people who don’t talk too much must choose how they communicate. The essential message was clear: Obi and I know each other well, and I like him—I still do—but politically, we don’t agree.” The Senator narrated how, in early June, he was invited to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to deliver a lecture. In anticipation of the trip, he made efforts to notify the Enugu State Governor out of respect and protocol, even though he is no longer a serving governor. “I asked my orderly to get the phone number of the Governor. When he finally reached the Governor’s ADC, I requested that my visit be conveyed to His Excellency and that I would appreciate security support from the airport to Nsukka. There’s no law mandating this—it’s simply about decency and mutual respect.” Oshiomhole recounted a similar precedent from his time as Governor of Edo State when former President Olusegun Obasanjo—despite their strained relationship during Oshiomhole’s time as Nigeria Labour Congress President—formally informed him of a visit to Edo State and requested logistical and security support. “Obasanjo came to my residence, and when the media asked why, he said, and I quote: ‘Whomever you think you are, when visiting a state, there is a constitutional authority in that state. Out of respect, you inform the Governor.’” He stressed that Peter Obi, though well-intentioned, should have extended the same courtesy when visiting a government-owned nursing school in Edo State—an institution fully built, funded, and maintained by the state government. “It’s not a private facility. It’s owned 100% by the Edo State Government. So, even if Obi has good intentions, as a former Governor, he should understand the importance of protocol and decency in such cases.” Oshiomhole concluded by stating that Governor Godwin Obaseki’s concerns were not about seeking permission, but a matter of basic courtesy and administrative order. “Maybe it was a question of how people interpreted the Governor’s choice of words. But the message was clear: if you’re coming to a state facility, it’s just respectful to notify the sitting Governor. It’s not about protocol or permission—it’s about decency.”

Wike Mocks Peter Obi for Serving Food at Party, Backs Edo Governor’s Warning

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, over a recent video showing him serving food at an event. Speaking on Tuesday during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Wike described Obi’s action as a “show of shame” aimed at deceiving Nigerians into believing he is humble. “This is not where a presidential candidate will begin to serve food. No! No!! How long will he be serving the food? As a president, you will be carrying food and serving? And then Nigerians are laughing. Who told you that is humility?” Wike said. The former Rivers State governor also backed Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo over his recent warning to Obi to seek security clearance before visiting Edo. Wike argued that Okpebholo’s stance was necessary for public safety and should not be misinterpreted as hostility. Wike further criticised Nigerians for supporting what he called “political theatrics,” urging them to demand sincerity from leaders rather than “wayo” (deception).

Politics

Reno Omokri, Northern Youth Slam Peter Obi for Snubbing Buhari’s Burial

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Former presidential aide Reno Omokri and a prominent Northern youth influencer, Sarki, have criticized Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday. The funeral, which drew top dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemi Osinbajo, and other political heavyweights, was a major state event. However, Peter Obi was conspicuously missing. In a post on X, Reno Omokri accused Obi of showing disregard for the North and questioned his national loyalty. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was in Daura from beginning to end, showing his personal devotion to General Muhammadu Buhari and his commitment to the North. Arewa, remember who was not there!” Omokri wrote. Omokri further recalled past remarks by Obi, alleging that his recent positions confirm his bias. “On October 19, 2024, during General Gowon’s 90th birthday, Peter Obi called him ‘an enemy’ to be forgiven. And today, when General Buhari, the successor to Ahmadu Bello, was being buried, Peter Obi was nowhere to be found,” he stated. He also referenced Obi’s comments on the trial of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, suggesting they reveal his “true allegiance.” “In 2027, Nigeria needs a truly Nigerian president in Aso Rock, not a pretender whose true allegiance lies elsewhere,” Omokri added. Similarly, Northern youth leader Sarki warned that Obi’s absence could affect his chances in the 2027 presidential race. “Peter Obi didn’t attend President Muhammadu Buhari’s burial. This is the same man who expects northerners to hand over Nigeria to him. Let’s see how he plans to become president without our votes,” Sarki posted on X. Both Omokri and Sarki are known critics of Obi, who finished third in the 2023 general elections. Meanwhile, activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam questioned President Tinubu’s decision to declare a public holiday in honour of the late Buhari.