Shocking U-Turn: Fayose Declares Obi 'Nigeria’s Incoming President'

Social commentator and prominent businessman, Isaac Fayose, has publicly reversed his critical stance on the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, now hailing him as Nigeria’s “incoming president.” This dramatic shift occurred during a visit by the former Anambra State governor to Fayose’s residence on Saturday, marking a significant political reconciliation.

Just days prior, Fayose had publicly voiced strong criticisms against Obi, accusing him of ingratitude. He had threatened to withdraw his support from the Obidient Movement, alleging that Obi had failed to appreciate his contributions during the intense 2023 presidential campaign. Fayose had claimed to have made personal sacrifices, including offering his hotel facilities to supporters, without receiving acknowledgment from Obi.

However, sharing a video of the recent visit on his Instagram page, Fayose extended a warm welcome to Obi, expressing renewed confidence in his presidential aspirations. “It’s not every day the President comes to your house. Our incoming president. So shall it be, in Jesus’ name,” Fayose stated. Addressing his critics who had previously chastised him for his earlier comments, Fayose emphatically declared his unwavering loyalty, asserting, “For you others abusing me, you can see now, I am 100 per cent Obidient. So you better be Obidient. We are together, and we are winning.”

In response to the online attacks directed at Fayose, Peter Obi downplayed their significance, suggesting that many of those criticizing Fayose were not genuine members of the Obidient Movement. “Half of the people that abuse you, they don’t follow us. What they do, when they hire people, they carry them, call them all sorts of names,” Obi explained. The former Labour Party presidential candidate further underscored the vital role of constructive criticism, emphasizing that leaders must remain open to correction and feedback.

Obi articulated his belief in the importance of humility and continuous learning in leadership. “My people will tell you one thing: the one thing I take is criticism. You can never be annoyed with anybody for saying I did something wrong. Anytime you have any reason to criticise, and when we are not doing what is right, please, I want to hear that I am wrong. It is important that we do that,” he asserted. He concluded by arguing that true leadership necessitates a willingness to admit mistakes and continuously learn. “If he doesn’t, he shouldn’t lead. He should just go, because he thinks he knows everything. And if you know everything, you are an idiot. You shouldn’t be a leader. A listener, a learner, always,” Obi added, highlighting the core principles for effective governance.

The meeting effectively diffused the tensions that had arisen from Fayose’s earlier public outburst regarding Obi’s perceived lack of appreciation for his contributions to the 2023 electioneering campaign, culminating in a public display of renewed solidarity.