In a recent interview on Arise Television’s News programme, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, addressed criticisms from Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka.
Soyinka had previously stated that Obi was unfit to govern Nigeria and accused him of inciting his supporters to attack and insult him, particularly online.
When asked about Soyinka’s comments, Obi emphasized his respect for elder statesmen, saying, “I will not make any comment on that. Wole Soyinka is a father. I have a policy as a father: I don’t respond when my fathers talk. I leave it to them because when I become their age, I would want younger ones to respect me.”
Obi firmly denied encouraging any disrespectful behavior from his supporters, known as the “Obidients.” He stated, “I assure you, I have never, and I will never, knowingly or unknowingly, ask the Obidients or the younger ones to say anything against a priest, imam, or elder; it will never happen.”
Highlighting his extensive experience, Obi said, “It’s left for Nigerians to know whether I’m fit or not. I have been a successful businessman in the private sector. I have been in the corporate world, and I will say I am one of the most successful. I have also served in the state, and I ask those who attack to let us put our records and check them side by side.”
Obi’s comments came in the wake of Democracy Day celebrations, underscoring his commitment to maintaining respect and decorum in political discourse.
