Obi’s disrespect for national anthem shows he is lawless – Wike
Wike Criticizes Obi’s Actions at Town Hall Meeting
By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA — Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, condemned Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress, for not standing during the national anthem at a recent event. Wike described Obi’s actions as lawless and divisive, asserting that they reflect his lack of allegiance to Nigeria.
Wike made these remarks during a stakeholders’ town hall meeting in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, organized by the Rainbow Coalition to garner support for President Bola Tinubu’s reelection campaign in 2027, as well as for candidates from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike stated, “A whole national anthem of a country is being sung. A man who wants to be President of Nigeria would disobey and sit down. And then not only that, when a different national anthem that is not being used for Nigeria was sung, he stood up.” He emphasized that such actions indicate a disconnection from the nation that should not be overlooked.
Wike further criticized Obi’s political history, alleging that he has a tendency to abandon political parties during crises instead of addressing them. He also criticized Obi for failing to conduct local government elections throughout his eight years as governor of Anambra State, branding it a contradiction of his stated commitment to the rule of law.
In addition to targeting Obi, Wike questioned the records of the opposition coalition involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. He mentioned the conditions of state seaports during Amaechi’s tenure and accused his administration of failing to fulfill a promise to rebuild a demolished Government Secondary School in Ogu and to establish a 1,000-bed specialist hospital.
While urging the residents of Ogu-Bolo to disregard “big grammar” from opposition figures, Wike pointed to the accomplishments of Tinubu’s administration, highlighting the Ogu-Bolo Civic Centre and the successful conduct of local government elections as evidence of governmental progress in the area.
During the meeting, which gathered traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives, and party members, Wike called on attendees to support Tinubu, as well as APC candidate Kingsley Chinda, for the Governorship of Rivers State and other National Assembly candidates.
Council Chairman Vincent Nemieboka expressed strong support for Wike, citing the development projects and appointments made for the community during Wike’s tenure.
Community leaders, including Amanyanabo of Bolo, King Acheseinimie Frank, acknowledged the visible projects completed through the Niger Delta Development Commission, such as sandfilling works and road maintenance.
Prof. Lucky Worika, speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, commended Wike’s contributions both as governor and in his current role, emphasizing the federal appointments received by local residents and the ongoing infrastructure projects being implemented in the community.
Despite the accolades, Worika called attention to ongoing challenges, including access to healthcare, potable water, electricity, and environmental sustainability. He urged Wike to leverage his national influence to attract additional federal investments to the region.
In closing, both Abeabiari and Nemieboka assured Wike of their commitment to delivering votes for all Rainbow Coalition and APC candidates in the upcoming elections.
