The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed claims that the All Progressives Congress (APC) or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is worried about the growing influence of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Speaking during an interview, Umahi described suggestions that the ruling APC fears Obi as unfounded, insisting that neither he, President Tinubu, nor the party sees the former Anambra State governor as a political threat.
Responding to a question on the perception that the APC appears to be intimidated by Peter Obi, Umahi said the narrative does not reflect political reality.
According to him, “Even I cannot be scared of Peter Obi, not to talk about President Tinubu or our party, the APC. What is displayed around Peter Obi is AI politics; it’s putting something on nothing. Nobody is scared of Peter Obi.”
The minister argued that much of the attention surrounding Obi is driven by what he described as “AI politics,” suggesting that online narratives and digital amplification have created an exaggerated perception of the Labour Party chieftain’s political strength.
Umahi maintained that the APC remains focused on governance and implementing the policies of the Tinubu administration rather than being distracted by opposition figures.
His remarks come amid ongoing political debates over the strength of Nigeria’s opposition ahead of future elections. Peter Obi continues to enjoy significant support, particularly among young Nigerians and on social media, while the APC insists it remains confident in its political standing and performance in government.
Umahi’s comments are expected to generate fresh reactions across the political landscape, with supporters of both the APC and the Labour Party likely to weigh in on his characterization of Obi’s popularity.
