Peter Obi is desperate, he can’t fix Nigeria in four years — Oshiomhole
Oshiomhole Criticizes Obi’s 2027 Presidential Aspirations
Senator Adams Oshiomhole has openly criticized the 2027 presidential ambitions of Peter Obi, the candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). He characterized Obi’s promise to transform Nigeria within a single four-year term as unrealistic and indicative of desperation.
Oshiomhole’s remarks came during an appearance on TVC’s Beyond the Headlines, shortly after Obi reiterated his commitment to serving only one term if elected in 2027.
The former governor of Edo State questioned Obi’s credibility, suggesting that the candidate has not remained consistent in his political beliefs. He pointed to Obi’s departure from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) after his tenure as governor of Anambra State.
“The Peter Obi of Anambra State is not the Peter Obi of today,” Oshiomhole stated. “He once said he would not abandon APGA out of respect for Ojukwu, yet he quickly became a political wanderer after leaving office.”
Oshiomhole further remarked that Obi’s background as a trader renders him ill-suited for the long-term planning necessary to govern the country. He argued that traders tend to focus on short-term gains rather than long-term strategies.
“Obi is a trader,” he said. “Traders have short-term calculations and are not wired to think about long-term projections.”
In addition, Oshiomhole accused Obi of prioritizing importation over domestic production, suggesting that his business interests contribute to job losses in Nigeria.
“Obi’s business is about exporting jobs and importing unemployment,” he asserted. “That is what he lives for.”
In contrast, Oshiomhole commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, claiming that the president has made tough decisions to address inherited economic challenges. Oshiomhole compared Tinubu’s reforms to life-saving surgical procedures, asserting that the nation is beginning to experience positive outcomes despite opposition criticism.
He also referenced Obi’s past comments during xenophobic incidents in South Africa, calling them indicative of poor judgment for someone seeking Nigeria’s highest office.
“Do you really believe that anyone who could not improve a state in four years, despite working hard for eight years, can now claim they need just four more?” Oshiomhole asked. “That reflects desperation.”
Oshiomhole concluded by stating that desperation can cloud judgment, suggesting that Obi’s campaign promises lack credibility and expressing confidence in being able to engage him in a debate.
