The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has said he will not abuse President Bola Tinubu, stressing that the President has his respect despite their political differences.
Obi made the remarks on Friday at the 2026 All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Enugu, where he spoke on political discourse, accountability and the role of the media in sustaining democracy.
The former Anambra State governor said his disagreements with political leaders should centre on their policies, decisions and performance rather than personal attacks.
Obi said he had never engaged in verbal abuse of governors or other public officials and maintained that holding leaders accountable did not require insulting them.
He said, “I cannot abuse any governor. I cannot abuse anybody in government. I don’t need to abuse people even in the federal government.”
Referring specifically to Tinubu, Obi said the President’s position as the country’s leader commanded his respect.
He added that respect for public office holders should not stop Nigerians or the media from questioning their decisions or assessing their performance.
According to Obi, citizens should be able to debate whether a government is performing well or making the right decisions without resorting to personal attacks.
The NDC candidate also stressed the importance of leadership character, arguing that the conduct of political leaders can influence the values of the wider society.
He urged journalists and editors to scrutinise political leaders based on their records, statements and qualifications.
Obi’s comments came amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 general election, with political parties and candidates increasingly outlining their positions and approaches to governance.
While he said Tinubu had his respect, Obi maintained that such respect would not prevent him from challenging policies or decisions he disagrees with.
