Obi's Rising Influence Sparks APC Fury, NDC Claims

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has vociferously defended its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, against what it characterizes as a series of attacks orchestrated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its proponents. The NDC attributes these alleged aggressions to Obi's escalating popularity and widespread acceptance among the Nigerian populace, particularly as the nation gears up for the pivotal 2027 general elections.

Osa Director, the National Publicity Secretary of the NDC, articulated this position in a recent interview. He claimed that the APC is demonstrating increasing apprehension regarding Peter Obi’s political stature and influence, a concern that intensifies with the approaching electoral cycle of 2027. Director underscored that these alleged attacks are a direct consequence of Obi's burgeoning acceptance among Nigerian voters, affirming that the ultimate prerogative to choose the country's leader rests solely with the electorate. He stated, “The APC and its hirelings are attacking our presidential candidate, His Excellency, Peter Obi of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, because they know that Peter Obi is the best, the brightest and the most preferred candidate by the Nigerian electorate.” Director further added, “At the end of the day, it is down to Nigerians to decide who leads them, and it is obvious from their body language, from their expression, from their love so far, that Peter Obi is the preferred candidate.”

The NDC spokesman also alleged a growing desperation within the APC in anticipation of the 2027 elections, accusing the party of deploying all available resources to undermine Peter Obi’s political standing. Despite these claims, Director expressed unwavering confidence in the discernment and power of the voters, reiterating the NDC’s conviction that “the will of Nigerians will triumph” in determining the election’s outcome.

Furthermore, the NDC spokesman voiced strong criticism against Abayomi Arabambi’s initiative to compel the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), to release Peter Obi’s academic records. Director described this action as a potential abuse of the judicial process, arguing that academic records are safeguarded by legal protections, including specific provisions within the Freedom of Information Act. He highlighted Obi’s characteristic openness on the subject, noting that the presidential candidate has already indicated his lack of objection to the release of his academic records. “Peter Obi in his usual openness has said that he is right, let them give him his academic records,” Director affirmed.

The NDC also scrutinized the stance of an individual identified as a member of the Labour Party’s National Working Committee, who reportedly claimed to be unaware of, or not in possession of, Obi’s academic records and certificates. Director found this claim perplexing, citing Peter Obi’s extensive political trajectory and history of electoral participation. He pointed out that Obi has successfully contested and served as the Governor of Anambra State, ran as a vice-presidential candidate, and contested for the presidency in the 2023 elections under the Labour Party platform. Director asserted, “It is even a thing of disgrace and amusement for a man claimed to be a member of the National Working Committee of the Labour Party to say that he does not have or know about the academic record and certificate of Obi.” He suggested that such a position calls into question whether the individual had adequately fulfilled their responsibilities within the party structure.

Regarding the impending 2027 campaign, Director disclosed that the NDC is in the final stages of compiling and will soon unveil the composition of its Presidential Campaign Council. This decision follows extensive consultations among party leaders and various stakeholders. He emphasized that the party is deliberately pacing itself to ensure comprehensive engagement with all relevant parties before formally inaugurating its campaign activities. “The list of the Presidential Campaign Council will be released soon because all the parties and stakeholders are meeting,” he stated. Director assured that the NDC would not yield to pressure to commence its campaign prematurely, prioritizing thorough internal consultations. “We are not going to be stampeded to start campaigning when we have not consulted with every stakeholder, and that’s why we want to make sure that every one of us is on the same page,” he explained. He reassured Nigerians of the party’s imminent campaign launch, pledging that the NDC would maintain an issue-based approach, eschewing personal attacks. “But very soon, we’ll be on the campaign trail, and we assure Nigerians we are going to run an issue-based campaign,” Director concluded.