The Presidency has dismissed allegations by the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is targeting him.
Reacting to the claims, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the allegations as baseless and misleading, insisting that the Federal Government has no reason to single out the former Anambra State governor.
Onanuga rejected Obi’s suggestion that his safety was under threat ahead of the 2027 general election, arguing that the claims were unsupported by evidence and intended to generate public sympathy.
He also dismissed allegations that individuals were being discouraged from inviting Obi to public or social events, maintaining that such assertions lacked credibility.
The presidential aide accused the NDC presidential hopeful of linking the government to every personal challenge he experiences, alleging that he frequently makes exaggerated and unsubstantiated claims against the Tinubu administration.
Responding to Obi’s reference to an incident at an airport where his vehicle was reportedly locked, Onanuga suggested that the situation may have resulted from a violation of parking regulations rather than any deliberate action by the government.
He further stated that Fidelity Bank, in which Obi is said to have significant interests, has continued to perform strongly, adding that the institution has benefited from the country’s ongoing economic reforms.
According to Onanuga, the Federal Government has no interest in targeting the bank or undermining Obi’s business interests, insisting that the administration remains focused on implementing policies aimed at improving the economy and the welfare of Nigerians.
He added that President Tinubu’s administration would not be distracted by what he described as politically motivated narratives, maintaining that its priority remains delivering reforms and governance for the country.
NATIONAL PATRIOTS CALL FOR RESPONSIBLE POLITICS, ELECTORAL COMPLIANCE, REFRAIN FROM DISTRACTING GOVERNANCE.
“The National Patriots urges all presidential aspirants, especially Peter Obi to exercise restraint, avoid unverified allegations and conduct political engagement with the maturity expected of those seeking Nigeria’s highest office. Claims capable of heightening public anxiety should be supported by credible evidence and, where necessary, reported to the appropriate security agencies for investigation.
The organisation encourages candidates to focus on presenting their vision, policies and programmes to Nigerians rather than making assertions that may unnecessarily inflame the political atmosphere. Nigerians are increasingly discerning and will evaluate aspirants on their ideas, leadership record, integrity and capacity to govern.
Dr. G. Fraser MFR
President, The National Patriots.
Special Adviser to Former President Goodluck Jonathan.
