Nigeria's Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has strongly criticized Peter Obi's recent departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as a political error that northern Nigeria cannot afford. Omokri made this known on Sunday via his official X handle, responding to Obi's announcement of leaving the ADC due to internal crises and a hostile political environment.
Obi's Reasons for Leaving ADC
Peter Obi stated that his exit was prompted by recurring internal conflicts and external pressures within the ADC, which he claimed mirrored the challenges that forced him out of the Labour Party. He accused the Nigerian state and its agents of creating unnecessary crises and hostility within the ADC, diverting attention from pressing national issues.
Omokri's Response
Omokri argued that Obi's presence in political parties often leads to internal discord, citing a pattern across multiple parties. He stated, "Once can be a mistake. Twice may be a coincidence. But after the third time, and then the fourth, it becomes a pattern," concluding that "the parties are not the problem; Peter is the issue." Omokri questioned the wisdom of northern Nigeria aligning with Obi, alleging unfulfilled commitments and broken promises regarding party loyalty.
Allegations of Broken Promises
Omokri alleged that Obi has made and broken multiple public promises not to leave political platforms that facilitated his rise, noting that Obi is now poised to move to a fifth political platform. He also expressed doubts about Obi's credibility regarding a one-term presidency pledge.
Policy Concerns for the North
Omokri highlighted northern Nigeria's major challenges, including out-of-school children and rising insecurity, while agriculture remains a key strength. He questioned Obi's track record in these areas, alleging that he did not build educational institutions or significantly develop agriculture during his tenure as Anambra State governor.
Advice for Northern Leaders
Omokri urged northern leaders to make a rational political choice ahead of the 2027 elections, advocating continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that Tinubu is constitutionally limited to one more term and emphasized that supporting Tinubu is essential for national unity, as the president has not acted against the interests of any region. Omokri concluded that sticking with Tinubu, who helped General Buhari win the APC presidential primaries in 2014 and the general election in 2015, is in the best interest of Northern Nigeria.
As of press time, Peter Obi had not publicly responded to Omokri's comments.
