The Director of the Abuja School of Social Thought and Politics, Sam Amadi, has weighed in on the ongoing political debates surrounding the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, asserting that sustained attacks against him have failed to diminish his popularity .
Amadi made the remarks in a post on X on Saturday while reacting to a debate sparked by comments from actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo, who recently threatened to release information that could damage Obi’s political career if supporters continued to attack him online .
"No Factual Revelation"
According to Amadi, Obi's political appeal remains intact because critics have not presented factual evidence capable of damaging his reputation. He argued that most attacks against the former Anambra State governor amount to elitist criticism rather than revelations of wrongdoing .
"Attacks against @PeterObi don't stick much because he has little or nothing that is scandalous or corrupt. All the other presidential candidates today cannot boast of that record," Amadi wrote .
"His political popularity is not damaged because his traducers are merely expressing elitist derision and not bombing him with any factual revelation. He is still the best available on presidential slate today," he added .
A Shield of Integrity
Amadi further stated that Obi's record in public service has helped shield him from political attacks, adding that other presidential contenders cannot claim a similar level of freedom from allegations of corruption . The statement comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Calls for Strategic Alliances
This is not the first time Amadi has spoken in defence of Obi's political prospects. Earlier in June, he suggested that Obi needs to expand his reach across Northern Nigeria to succeed, noting that the strategic choice of former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as a running mate reflects the need to broaden the NDC candidate's electoral map .
Amadi had also previously called for a joint ticket between Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, arguing that "if O cannot win, A cannot win" and that a partnership would be necessary to challenge the ruling APC in 2027 .
A Divisive Political Climate
The defence of Obi comes amid a heated political environment. The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, had recently criticised Obi, accusing him of dishonesty regarding his stance on issues affecting the Southeast and claiming that Obi had promised to stop President Bola Tinubu's legacy infrastructure projects if elected .
Umahi, who served as Governor of Ebonyi State while Obi was Governor of Anambra, challenged members of the Obedient Movement to compare the records of both leaders during their tenures .
Meanwhile, Obi has continued to engage with supporters, recently refuting rumours of division within the Obidient Movement and pledging to secure the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu if elected president .
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