By Jude Opara
Ahead of the 2027 elections, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has challenged his political opponents to produce evidence of his alleged high-handedness against Northerners during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, or cease their campaign of calumny.
Speaking through Idris Zekeri Jnr, spokesman for the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), Obi stated that credible intelligence indicates certain individuals are spreading false narratives in northern rural areas, claiming he treated Northerners harshly during his governorship.
Zekeri noted that those peddling these rumors aim to tarnish Obi’s image among Northern voters as the 2027 presidential election approaches.
“The circulation of this falsehood regarding Peter Obi’s relationship with Northerners during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State has persisted despite credible denials from Northern leaders in Anambra State, who have explicitly stated that Obi was, and remains, a vital supporter of theirs both in and out of office.
“Despite clear facts, some individuals continue covertly planting these false narratives at Northern gatherings, hoping repeated claims will eventually seem convincing.
“We challenge those behind this campaign to provide names, dates, records, and verifiable evidence supporting their allegations.
“They should cease hiding behind whispered accusations and political propaganda,” the statement said.
The statement added that during his tenure, Obi governed Anambra State for all residents, regardless of ethnicity or creed.
It adds: “Peter Obi governed Anambra State for all its residents, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
“His relationship with Nigerians from the North was not based on the falsehoods now being fabricated for political gain.
“The timing is revealing: as the 2027 election approaches, those unable to challenge Peter Obi on his competence, integrity, and public service record are resorting to the oldest political weapon—ethnic suspicion and misinformation.
“We urge our brothers and sisters in the North to seek facts, not rumors; evidence, not whispers; and policies, not propaganda.”
Zekeri cautioned that Nigeria cannot be rebuilt by weaponizing lies that have long divided its people along ethnic and religious lines.
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