Human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has criticized supporters of the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, popularly known as “Obidients,” saying their approach to politics has created more enemies than allies for their leader.
In a lengthy statement on Saturday, Adeyanju argued that Obi’s followers are the reason the former Anambra governor will “never become president,” accusing them of insulting and threatening politicians, journalists, critics, and artists. According to him, even Obi’s close aides are guilty of the same behavior, thereby alienating potential allies across the country.
“The same insulting strategy that failed them in 2023 is what they are still using. Even if they change strategy now, it’s too late; Obi cannot be president of Nigeria. In fact, Atiku has a better chance at the presidency than Obi,” Adeyanju stated.
The lawyer also took a swipe at Obi’s reluctance to openly participate in Anambra politics, especially with the upcoming governorship election in the state. He claimed that Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State would easily defeat any candidate backed by Obi.
“If Obi is really popular, let him deliver his candidate in Anambra and stop Soludo. But they are too scared to get involved in Anambra politics, yet they are interested in politics everywhere else. How do you want to be president but can’t deliver a governor in your state?” Adeyanju queried.
He further mocked the claims by LP supporters that Soludo’s re-election would be possible only through vote buying, insisting that Obi’s political influence in the state is overstated.
Adeyanju concluded that Obi and his supporters must first prove their strength in Anambra before aspiring for higher political office, warning that their “religious politics” would not save them in future elections.
