Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Anambra State governor, has ignited a firestorm of reactions online after asserting that he personally visited every secondary school in Anambra during his eight-year tenure as governor.
Obi made the statement on Monday, August 4, during a meeting with the leadership of Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State. The former governor was preparing to deliver a guest speech at the Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN 26), and used the opportunity to stress the importance of political leaders engaging directly with educational institutions.
What Peter Obi Said About School Visits
According to The Cable, Obi was making a broader point about the need for leaders to prioritize education. He posed a rhetorical question: "I was asking someone just yesterday, when last did our leaders visit our primary, secondary and universities where our children are going to school? As governor, I visited every secondary school in Anambra state."
The comment was part of a larger discourse on governance and accountability, but it was the specific claim about visiting all secondary schools that captured public attention.
Social Media Divided Over Credibility
The claim quickly became a trending topic on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with users sharply divided. Critics questioned the feasibility of such a feat, while supporters pointed to Obi's track record of hands-on governance.
One user, @Adebest001, expressed skepticism: "How is this possible, someone needs to caution him on some of his promises." Another, @OlaApinke931, was more blunt: "He can't help but lie, that's the hallmark of a Gbajue! But I also think he has become addicted to saying what he knows nothing about and outright lies to cover his failings! This was how Peter Obi started as a Vice-presidential candidate to Atiku then! Confidently spewing out…"
@chibuzo_mikel also challenged the statement, noting: "Anytime I try to look away, my bros drops another bombshell that I find extremely difficult to ignore. Why is Mr. Peter Obi addicted to lies bikonu? He claimed he visited every single secondary school as Governor. Before now, he has also claimed that he gave every Senior…"
@Olaitan_maxy added: "This is a dishonest statement. You can't visit all in Nigeria. It's not even your job to be visiting sec school."
Supporters Defend Obi's Record
However, many came to Obi's defense. @VincentOjukwu argued: "if he can visit or travel 3-4 geo political zones in Nigeria and outside Africa within 24 hours. what is 260 schools or more in 8 years as former Anambra state Governor?" This reference to Obi's known travel stamina highlighted his reputation for energetic engagement.
A user identifying as @chelsybae provided a personal testimony: "Yes he did that. I was a witness during my brother's regime as prefect of Metu memorial secondary school onitsha." Such firsthand accounts lent credence to Obi's claim for some observers.
Obi's Political Journey and Education Legacy
Obi served as Anambra governor from 2006 to 2014, a period marked by significant investments in education. He resigned from the African Democratic Congress on May 2, 2026, and was ratified as the NDC's presidential candidate on May 29, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The school visits claim adds to ongoing public scrutiny of statements Obi has made on the campaign trail. His education record in Anambra has been a key pillar of his political narrative, with supporters citing improvements in school infrastructure and teacher welfare during his tenure.
Fresh War of Words with Kenneth Okonkwo
In related news, a fresh dispute has emerged between Obi and his former ally, Kenneth Okonkwo. Legit.ng reported that Okonkwo, an African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, reacted to a reported defamation suit filed against him by Obi. Speaking on Channels Television's Sunrise Daily on Friday, July 31, Okonkwo insisted he did not defame Obi and claimed the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate misunderstood how defamation cases work.
This ongoing feud adds another layer of complexity to Obi's public image as he navigates the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
