The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has sparked controversy after declaring his personal animosity toward Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate, saying he would "spit on him," according to a report by Daily Post.
The Remarks
In the remarks that have drawn attention, the Edo APC chairman expressed open hostility toward Obi, stating that he harbours strong personal dislike for the former Anambra State governor and would go as far as spitting on him. The comments mark one of the more bluntly personal attacks directed at Obi by a serving party official.
The statement has since generated reactions across political circles and on social media, with supporters and critics of both figures weighing in on the tone and substance of the remarks.
Obi's Political Standing
Peter Obi, who ran on the Labour Party platform in the 2023 presidential election, has remained a significant figure in Nigerian opposition politics, drawing a large and vocal following particularly among younger voters. He has frequently been the target of criticism from APC officials and supporters, though direct personal insults from a state party chairman are unusual.
Context
The remarks come amid heightened political tension in Edo State and across the country, as parties position themselves ahead of future electoral contests. Edo State has been a battleground in recent election cycles, with the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party all competing for influence.
The Edo APC chairman's comments are the latest in a series of inflammatory statements by political actors directed at opponents, a pattern that has raised concerns about the tone of political discourse in the country.
Response
There has been no immediate official response from Peter Obi or the Labour Party to the remarks at the time of the report. The APC has also not issued a formal statement on the matter.
The statement remains the personal position of the Edo APC chairman and does not necessarily reflect the official stance of the party, though his position as a state party leader gives the remarks added political weight.
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