Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has taken a swipe at former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing him as one of the most opportunistic and inconsistent politicians in Nigeria’s history.
Onanuga’s remarks came in response to Obi’s recent statement that he could leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) if the party’s internal processes are compromised ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The presidential aide made his position known in a post on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after Obi’s appearance on Arise TV Prime Time on Monday, where the former Anambra State governor spoke about his political journey and his stance on party discipline and transparency.
In his reaction, Onanuga criticized Obi’s history of switching political parties, arguing that it reflects a pattern of inconsistency rather than principled decision-making. He referenced Obi’s past affiliations with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party, noting that his repeated exits raise questions about his political stability.
According to Onanuga, Obi’s latest comments about potentially leaving the ADC reinforce concerns that he lacks commitment to any political platform and may be driven more by personal calculations than long-term ideological alignment.
However, Obi had, during the interview that sparked the reaction, defended his record of political movement, insisting that his decisions have always been guided by principle rather than personal gain or convenience.
“I don’t have a long history in politics, but even if I have to move twenty times, I will. You cannot claim to pursue change using outdated systems,” Obi said.
He maintained that his willingness to leave political parties is rooted in his commitment to transparency, fairness, and credible processes, emphasizing that he cannot remain in any system that does not align with those values.
Obi also addressed criticisms surrounding his departure from the Labour Party, stating that his exit was necessitated by internal crises that he believes were deliberately orchestrated.
“They set the house on fire and expected me to remain inside. When I found a way out, they criticised me for not staying to put out a fire they started,” he said, suggesting that he was unfairly blamed for leaving a troubled environment.
Speaking further on his current position within the ADC, Obi acknowledged that some individuals he had previously worked with in other political parties are now part of the same platform. However, he stressed that their past affiliations are less important than their present conduct and commitment to reform.
“What matters is not who people were before, but who they are now. We are undergoing a process together, and if that process is compromised, I will not hesitate to speak out,” he added.
He reiterated that transparency, integrity, and accountability in political processes remain non-negotiable principles for him, warning that he is prepared to take bold decisions, including leaving the party, if those standards are not met.
The exchange between Onanuga and Obi highlights the growing political tension ahead of the 2027 elections, as key actors position themselves and define their narratives. Analysts say such public disagreements reflect deeper ideological and strategic divides within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Observers also note that Obi’s emphasis on reform and internal democracy resonates with a segment of the electorate seeking change, while critics argue that frequent party switching may undermine political stability and long-term institutional development.
As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the next general elections, the debate over consistency, ideology, and credibility among Nigeria’s leading political figures is expected to remain a central theme.
The presidency has not issued any further official statement beyond Onanuga’s remarks, while supporters of Obi continue to defend his position as one rooted in principle and a desire for genuine democratic reform.
