Peter Obi Declines Umahi's Debate Challenge, Says 'Debate Presidential Candidates'
Minister of Works David Umahi and NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi are engaged in a public dispute after Obi declined Umahi's debate invitation. Obi insists he will only debate presidential candidates, while Umahi suggests Obi fears comparing their gubernatorial records and highlights his own extensive public service experience.
A public exchange has erupted between Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and Minister of Works David Umahiafter the minister challenged Obi to a debate comparing their records as former governors.
Speaking in an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Obi dismissed the invitation, saying he only debates fellow presidential candidates, not political office holders. He advised Umahi to "play within his circle" and become a presidential candidate before seeking such a debate.
Obi argued that the disagreement began when he criticised the condition of a federal road, adding that Umahi's subsequent repair of the road effectively ended the matter. Using football analogies, he likened himself to a World Cup or Premier League team, insisting that Umahi was not in the same category for a presidential-level debate.
Responding, Umahi claimed Obi declined the challenge because he was unwilling to compare his record as Anambra governor with Umahi's tenure in Ebonyi State. The minister maintained that his proposal was about accountability and allowing Nigerians to judge their respective performances.
He also highlighted his broader public service experience, noting that he has served as a party chairman, deputy governor, governor, senator, and Minister of Works, arguing that his political career extends beyond Obi's experience as a former governor.