In a recent escalation of tensions between two prominent Nigerian political figures, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, have exchanged sharp criticisms over social media.
Allegations Surrounding Rome Meeting
The controversy began when Sahara Reporters published a story alleging that Peter Obi sought a private meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Rome to discuss a purported ₦225 billion debt crisis involving Fidelity Bank, where Obi previously served as chairman.
In response, Obi took to X (formerly Twitter) to refute the claims, stating:
“One such individual, whose entire life revolves around blackmail, falsely claimed that I went to Rome to have a private meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding a purported ₦225 billion debt crisis involving Fidelity Bank. These claims are not only baseless, malicious, but entirely false.”
He further clarified:
“Let me categorically state that I have never sought an audience with, nor met, President Tinubu since he assumed office, except about 1 minute meeting at the arena of Saint Peter’s Basilica Rome during the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV, where I was seated behind, and had to respectfully greet him, and other dignitaries present.”
Sowore’s Counter-Accusations
Sowore responded by labeling Obi as the “Money Launderer-in-Chief,” referencing the Pandora Papers investigation, which implicated Obi in offshore dealings that allegedly violated Nigerian laws. He accused Obi of fabricating stories and criticized his past business practices.
Historical Context and Ongoing Feud
This exchange is part of a broader history of animosity between the two politicians. Sowore has previously criticized Obi’s political maneuvers, including his visit to Afe Babalola concerning the detention of activist Dele Farotimi, which Sowore viewed as undermining judicial independence. Additionally, Sowore has expressed disdain for Obi’s political alliances, particularly his meeting with Atiku Abubakar, suggesting it aimed to perpetuate political corruption.
In interviews, Sowore has accused Obi of being part of the old political establishment, stating:
“Peter Obi is part of the old system that I’ve always fought against. I understand where he is coming from. This is 1999 repeating itself.”
He has also criticized the “Obidient” movement, expressing concerns over the behavior of some supporters:
“I don’t want supporters who will suppress and oppress people the same way these people are fighting our present people. I don’t wish for supporters who would go to the extent of even arresting people because they say something they don’t like on Facebook.”
Political Trajectories and Public Perception
In the 2023 presidential election, Obi secured over 6.1 million votes, finishing third, while Sowore received 14,608 votes, placing 16th. While both advocate for anti-corruption and youth inclusion, their methods diverge, with Sowore favoring radical activism and Obi pursuing reform within existing political structures.
The ongoing feud underscores the ideological and strategic divisions within Nigeria’s opposition landscape, potentially impacting the cohesion and effectiveness of opposition movements as the nation approaches future elections.
