I can never insult Peter Obi; we parted ways amicably — Tanko
By Henry Umoru, Abuja
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) Presidential Campaign Council, has refuted allegations circulating online that he disparaged Peter Obi, the candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in anticipation of the January 16, 2027 election. He stated that he would never insult his former principal.
Tanko characterized the reports as misleading fabrications orchestrated by political opponents intent on undermining his reputation. He described the sources of these claims as “mischief-makers” and “political detractors” seeking to create conflict.
In a statement issued Saturday through Comrade Mark Adebayo, Chief Media and Communications Advisor for the Adebayo-Bugaje Presidential Campaign Council, Tanko asserted that those familiar with his character know him as a principled and respectful individual who does not engage in personal attacks.
“I can never insult His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi,” Tanko emphasized. “We parted ways peacefully and with absolute mutual understanding. Politics is about vision and service, never about bitterness or personal attacks.”
During his appointment as National Coordinator of the Adebayo-Bugaje Campaign, Tanko expressed gratitude towards Obi for their previous partnership and the opportunities he afforded him while serving in the Obidient Movement Worldwide.
“I remain forever grateful to His Excellency, Mr. Peter Obi, for the wonderful opportunities he gave me to serve alongside him and lead the Obidient Movement worldwide,” he said. “I thank Mr. Obi, and I stand proudly by the records of my service with him.”
Tanko cautioned against the spread of misinformation, asserting that any attempts to create animosity between him and Obi have been unsuccessful. He reaffirmed that he and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate maintain a close friendship and that he will continue to show respect towards the former Anambra State Governor.
The Adebayo-Bugaje Presidential Campaign Council urged the public and media to disregard the false reports and to rely on verified communications from the council.
