Comedian Deeone Makes Controversial Claims About Peter Obi's 2027 Election Strategy
Popular comedian and former reality star Deeone, whose real name is Aderombi Adedayo Martin, has sparked significant controversy with his recent comments about former Anambra state governor Peter Obi's political ambitions. In a video posted on Tuesday, February 23, 2026, Deeone directly addressed the recent attack on Peter Obi and other African Democratic Congress (ADC) leaders in Benin City, Edo state.
Sympathy Votes Won't Work in 2027, Deeone Claims
Deeone made the bold assertion that Peter Obi cannot secure victory in the 2027 presidential election through sympathy votes. The comedian argued that while such tactics might have been effective in the 2023 election, Nigerian voters have become more discerning and sophisticated in their political awareness.
"Peter Obi you can't win 2027 elections with sympathy," Deeone stated emphatically in his video. "The thing might have worked in 2023, but not in this 2027 election. Everybody has become smarter. Let us know your manifesto, what you will do, which party you belong to, how you want to do things differently."
Questioning the Edo Attack Narrative
The comedian went further to question the official narrative surrounding the attack on Peter Obi and ADC leaders in Edo state. While many have pointed fingers at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Deeone suggested alternative possibilities that have generated heated debate across social media platforms.
"You say they shot bullets, how are we sure it is not your people or one of your cheap publicity stunts?" Deeone questioned in his video. He added in his caption: "Peter Obi, you have used religion and sympathy in 2023. This time it will not work."
Dismissing APC Involvement Allegations
Deeone also dismissed widespread claims that the APC orchestrated the attack on opposition leaders in Edo state. His comments come amid growing political tensions as Nigeria approaches another election cycle, with various political actors positioning themselves for the 2027 contest.
The comedian's remarks represent a significant departure from the dominant narrative that has emerged since the attack occurred. While many opposition figures have blamed the ruling party, Deeone's alternative perspective has added fuel to an already intense political debate.
Public Reaction to Deeone's Comments
The comedian's video has generated substantial reaction across social media platforms, with many netizens expressing strong opinions about his claims. Some have criticized Deeone for what they perceive as insensitive commentary about a serious security incident, while others have engaged with his political analysis.
One user, ramoney1608, questioned: "If someone had died... will you say the same?" Another commenter, mc_yannist, suggested: "My guy this video is off. At least you would have done small research even if na 1%."
Other reactions included official_giftedmena's comment: "So Deeone u are saying obi orchestrated his own attempted murder Omoh u smart pass this thing abeg," and obaksolo's observation: "If this is done by APC Boys then it's totally wrong. APC already have almost all the whole States of the Federation so why would they be pulling such again."
Broader Political Context
The controversy comes amid ongoing political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections. Peter Obi, who ran as the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election, remains a significant figure in Nigerian opposition politics. The attack in Edo state has raised concerns about political violence and the safety of opposition figures across the country.
Notably, actor Kenneth Okonkwo has taken a different position from Deeone, accusing the Nigerian government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being behind the attack on opposition leaders. Okonkwo described the incident during a February 24 interview with Arise TV as a deliberate attempt to silence opposition voices and claimed the APC was working toward creating a one-party state.
The divergent perspectives on the Edo attack highlight the complex and often contentious nature of Nigerian politics as the country prepares for another crucial election cycle. With political temperatures rising, statements from public figures like Deeone are likely to continue generating debate and discussion across the political spectrum.
