Adams Oshiomhole Criticises Peter Obi, arguing the former Anambra governor lacks the long-term vision required to become Nigeria’s president
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who represents Edo North Senatorial District and is a former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has criticised Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), declaring that the former Anambra State governor is not suited to become Nigeria’s president ahead of the 2027 general election.
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Speaking during an interview on TVC on Monday, Senator Oshiomhole argued that Peter Obi’s background in business influences his political outlook, claiming it reflects a preference for short-term decision-making rather than long-term national planning.
“Peter Obi is a trader. Traders have short-term calculations, they are not into long-term projections. They are not wired to think about what the situation will be in the long run. Their turnover is within three months, maximum of six months,” Senator Oshiomhole said.
Senator Oshiomhole also questioned Peter Obi’s political consistency, referring to the former governor’s decision to leave the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) after completing his tenure in Anambra State.
“The Peter Obi that was Governor of Anambra State is not the same today, because he was the one who said, as a matter of respect to the memory of Odumegwu Ojukwu, he would never abandon APGA. But before daybreak, once his tenure ended, Obi became a political wanderer,” Senator Oshiomhole said.
Expanding on his criticism, Senator Oshiomhole argued that leadership of a country requires the perspective of manufacturers, entrepreneurs and long-term investors rather than traders.
He further alleged that Peter Obi’s business activities encouraged imports at the expense of domestic employment, although he did not present evidence to support the claim during the interview.
Senator Oshiomhole also expressed confidence that Peter Obi would not become Nigeria’s next president, saying his assessment was based on the former governor’s record and leadership style.
The remarks add to the increasingly robust political exchanges ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with major political figures stepping up public engagements as parties position themselves for what is expected to be another highly competitive contest.
Peter Obi, who served as Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, emerged as one of Nigeria’s leading opposition figures after his strong performance in the 2023 presidential election.
Since then, Peter Obi has remained active in national debates on governance, the economy and public accountability, while continuing to attract significant support, particularly among younger voters.
The comments by Senator Oshiomhole are the latest in a series of political attacks directed at Peter Obi as discussions around potential candidates and alliances for the 2027 presidential election gather pace.
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At the time of publication, Peter Obi had not publicly responded to Senator Oshiomhole’s latest remarks.
