Presidency, Peter Obi clash over alleged political strategy ahead of 2027

Presidency, Peter Obi clash over alleged political strategy ahead of 2027

A fresh political row has erupted between the Presidency and Peter Obi after Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala alleged that the former Anambra State governor is using claims about threats to his life as a strategy to mobilise supporters of the Obidient Movement ahead of the 2027 general election.

Bwala, who serves as Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, made the allegation in a post on his verified X account while reacting to remarks made by Obi during a policy roundtable hosted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) in Berlin, Germany.

During the event, Obi alleged that there had been an attempt on his life after he planned a humanitarian visit to Benue State. He said the state government advised him against proceeding with the visit and claimed that gunfire erupted around the period of the planned trip, raising concerns about his safety.

Responding to the remarks, Bwala rejected Obi’s account and accused the opposition figure of making what he described as recurring allegations without credible evidence. He argued that the former Labour Party presidential candidate had previously made similar claims, including allegations of intimidation involving airport authorities.

According to Bwala, Obi’s latest comments form part of a broader political strategy designed to energise members of the Obidient Movement, the political support base that emerged during the 2023 presidential election.

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The presidential aide also referenced a recent dispute involving Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where Obi had alleged intimidation by airport officials. However, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo maintained that CCTV footage from the airport showed a vehicle linked to Obi violating airport traffic and parking regulations rather than being subjected to harassment.

Obi’s media team has rejected that explanation, insisting the footage released by the Federal Government did not capture the incident the former governor described publicly. His spokesperson argued that Obi’s concerns about his personal security should not be dismissed and maintained that vehicles associated with him had repeatedly faced unusual treatment at airports.

The latest exchange followed Obi’s participation in discussions on governance, democracy and Nigeria’s future at the ECFR forum in Berlin. During the event, he called for greater accountability, stronger institutions and reforms aimed at improving economic growth and restoring public confidence in government.

Political analysts say the public disagreement reflects the increasingly heated atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections, with leading political figures intensifying public engagements and sharpening their messaging as discussions around possible alliances and opposition realignments continue.

Supporters of both the Presidency and Obi have since taken to social media to defend their respective positions, with the debate generating widespread reactions across political circles.

While Bwala insists Obi’s allegations are politically motivated, Obi has maintained that his security concerns are genuine and deserve serious attention. Neither side has indicated any willingness to soften their positions, suggesting the exchanges could continue as preparations for the next election gather momentum.

The latest development comes amid growing political activity across the country, with parties and influential figures positioning themselves ahead of what is expected to be another fiercely contested presidential race in 2027.

Presidency, Peter Obi clash over alleged political strategy ahead of 2027