EBONYI STATE, Nigeria — A sharp political exchange has erupted between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, following claims by the latter that his personal safety and livelihood are being systematically targeted by the current administration.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has publicly dismissed these allegations, characterizing them as unfounded. Speaking during an inspection of ongoing federal road projects in Ebonyi State, the Minister expressed his skepticism regarding the former Anambra State governor’s fears.
The Conflict: Allegations of Persecution
The tension stems from a recent interview Obi granted to media personality Chude Jideonwo. In the conversation, Obi alleged that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is deliberately frustrating his professional interests and obstructing his political activities. Most alarmingly, Obi suggested that these actions were part of a broader campaign that could potentially result in him not being alive to witness or contest the 2027 general election.
Obi further cited personal experiences to support his claims, including an incident at the Lagos airport where he alleged his vehicle was specifically targeted for clamping by authorities, while other nearby vehicles were left untouched. He also claimed that many individuals have begun to avoid him in public settings for fear of becoming political targets themselves.
Government Response: "A Fabricated Narrative"
The Presidency has moved quickly to reject these claims. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga issued a robust rebuttal, describing Obi’s statements as “unfounded and misleading.” Onanuga characterized the allegations as a "fabricated narrative" and a "page from his book of lies and propaganda," aimed at attracting undue sympathy from the public.
Regarding the airport incident, Onanuga suggested that Obi was attempting to frame a simple enforcement of parking regulations as political persecution. He further dismissed the claim that the Federal Government is targeting Obi's interest in Fidelity Bank, noting that the institution remains robust and successful under the current economic reforms.
Umahi’s Stance: "We Want Him Alive to Lose Again"
Minister David Umahi, who previously served as the Governor of Ebonyi State, adopted a defiant tone when addressing the issue. He insisted that the government has no interest in the harm of any opposition figure.
“Nobody wants Obi dead; it’s not just reasonable. We all want him alive to contest this election and watch himself lose again,” Umahi stated.
The Minister argued that Obi’s apprehension is rooted in a misunderstanding of the current political landscape in the South East, which Obi continues to view as his primary stronghold. Umahi contended that the region’s political alignment has shifted significantly under President Tinubu’s administration, driven by the delivery of tangible federal infrastructure projects and strategic appointments for the South East.
“We have come with visible development in the zone, and our people have now agreed with us that we are better off with President Tinubu to complete the good works he is doing for us than playing ‘Artificial Intelligence’ kind of politics,” Umahi added.
The Road to 2027
As the nation looks toward the 2027 elections, the rhetoric between the ruling party and the opposition has intensified. Following his defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) earlier this year, Peter Obi remains a central figure in the opposition's strategy.
Minister Umahi has renewed his challenge for a public debate on the achievements of the current administration, stating that he is prepared to defend the government’s record on infrastructure and inclusive governance. As both sides prepare for the upcoming electoral cycle, the exchange underscores the deepening polarization in the Nigerian political space and the high stakes involved in the lead-up to the 2027 contest.
