From ‘Structure of Criminality’ to ‘My Leaders’
The Nigerian political landscape is heating up as the Presidency has officially launched a scathing critique against Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The core of the allegation? Political inconsistency and a desperate quest for power.
In a recent statement that has sparked nationwide conversation, the Presidency accused Obi of abandoning his previous convictions and “throwing his supporters under the bus” in a bid to form new alliances ahead of future elections.
The Catalyst: A Viral Video and a Change of Heart
The friction began following a viral video in which Peter Obi appeared to align himself with several high-profile political figures whom he had previously distanced himself from or criticized.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, took to social media to highlight what he describes as a “sharp reversal” in Obi’s rhetoric. Onanuga pointed out that Obi, who famously campaigned against the “established political structure” during the 2023 elections—often referring to it as a “structure of criminality”—is now referring to the architects of that same structure as his “leaders.”
Who are the New “Leaders”?
According to the Presidency’s statement, Obi was seen acknowledging and praising several political heavyweights, including:
- Atiku Abubakar (Former Vice President)
- Nasir El-Rufai (Former Kaduna Governor)
- David Mark (Former Senate President)
- Rotimi Amaechi (Former Transport Minister)
- Rauf Aregbesola (Former Interior Minister)
The Presidency argues that by embracing these figures, Obi is undermining the very foundation of the “Obidient” movement, which was built on the premise of a “New Nigeria” free from the influence of the old political guard.
“Politics of Desperation”: The Presidency’s Stance
Bayo Onanuga did not hold back in his assessment, stating that Peter Obi has set a “new record for political desperation.” The Presidency’s critique focuses on three main areas:
1. Lack of Ideological Consistency
The Presidency claims that Obi lacks a stable political ideology. By shifting his stance to align with prevailing trends or potential alliances, he appears to be a politician who “shifts with the wind.” Onanuga suggested that effective leadership requires clarity and steadfastness—qualities he claims are currently absent in Obi’s approach.
2. Abandoning Past Convictions
During the last election cycle, Obi’s brand was synonymous with “breaking away” from the status quo. However, his recent willingness to associate with figures he once “pilloried” suggests to the Presidency that he is willing to “eat his own vomit” to stay relevant in the political calculus.
3. Misleading the Electorate
Perhaps the most serious accusation is that Obi has misled his supporters. The Presidency suggested that those who believed in his message of radical change are now being sidelined as he seeks to rejoin the very establishment he promised to dismantle.
The Implications for 2027
As the 2027 general elections begin to loom in the distance, these developments suggest a shifting of the sands. Obi’s move toward the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and his outreach to other political giants indicate a strategy of “Big Tent” politics.
While the Presidency views this as inconsistency, supporters of such moves often argue that political pragmatism and broad coalitions are necessary to win in a complex environment like Nigeria. However, the Presidency’s latest attack aims to strip away the “outsider” status that made Obi a formidable force in the previous polls.
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