Presidency Warns Peter Obi Over ‘Democracy Has Collapsed’ Comment
The Presidency has cautioned Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, over his statement that Nigeria’s democracy has collapsed, urging him to be mindful of his words.
Obi made the comment on Monday at a colloquium in Abuja to celebrate the 60th birthday of former Imo State governor, Emeka Ihedioha.
He blamed the current state of Nigeria’s democracy on its leaders, stating that the judiciary no longer upholds democratic principles as it did in the past.
He recalled how he was able to reclaim his position as Anambra governor through the courts after his impeachment but lamented that such a system no longer exists.
Reacting, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, dismissed Obi’s claim, insisting that democracy in Nigeria remains strong.
“I listened multiple times to former Governor Peter Obi’s statement in this clip, where he claims that democracy has collapsed in Nigeria. His hyperbolic remarks, suited for headlines, have been made without deep reflection and lack a solid logical foundation.
“How can a democracy that has strengthened over the past 26 years be said to have collapsed? Only a discontented and disgruntled Peter, who benefits from the very free speech democracy provides, could perceive such a democratic downfall through his lens.
“If democracy had indeed collapsed, as Peter claims, and we were living under a regime antithetical to democratic principles, he would not have been able to make his comments on Monday at Emeka Ihedioha’s colloquium.
“I will urge him to watch what he says and restrain himself from playing to the gallery.”
Obi had previously challenged Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 presidential election at the Supreme Court, but his case was dismissed for lack of evidence.
The Presidency also dismissed a coalition being formed by opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections, calling them “sore losers” and stating that Tinubu remains focused on governance.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
