A coalition of Peter Obi’s supporters from Nigeria’s North-Central region has advised the Labour Party presidential candidate against accepting a proposed offer to serve as Vice President on a single-term ticket alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Operating under the banner North-Central Region of Nigeria Supporters for Mr. Peter Obi, the group issued a strongly worded statement on Wednesday, urging Obi to steer clear of any political arrangement that might compromise his integrity or jeopardize the ideals of the movement backing his presidential bid.
The statement, signed by the group’s chairman, Bitrus Samuel, and secretary, Murtala Ndagi, raised pointed ethical and political concerns about any alignment with Atiku, citing unresolved corruption allegations tied to the former Vice President.
“The North-Central region of Nigeria supporters for Mr. Peter Obi Group, feel compelled to address a matter of significant urgency and concern regarding the future of our nation and the political integrity of a leader we believe in. As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, we wish to caution Mr. Obi against accepting the offer of a vice-presidential role in a proposed joint single-term ticket with Atiku Abubakar.
“Mr. Obi, your unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the upliftment of the Nigerian populace stands in stark contrast to the allegations and controversies surrounding Mr. Abubakar. Recent accusations against him, including the alleged diversion of over $100 million in public funds for personal gain, paint a troubling picture of a man whose political legacy is marred by corruption. The Senate inquiry that has recommended his prosecution serves as a stark reminder of the ethical dilemmas that accompany his political alliances.
“Integrity is paramount in a nation striving for reform and renewal. Your supporters view your integrity as a beacon of hope in a political landscape often characterized by greed and betrayal. Aligning yourself with a figure like Atiku Abubakar, whose past is rife with allegations of corruption and misconduct, risks tarnishing your own reputation and undermining the very principles that have drawn so many to your cause.
“Moreover, the implications of such an alliance extend beyond personal reputation. It is essential to consider the potential fallout among your supporters, particularly in the North-Central region, where trust in political leaders has been severely eroded by years of mismanagement and corruption.
“Many of us have placed our faith in you as a leader who embodies the values of honesty and accountability. Accepting a vice-presidential role under Atiku’s banner could alienate your base, leaving us disillusioned and disheartened.
“The relationship between Atiku Abubakar and the United States further complicates matters. His history of alleged financial misconduct, including the transfer of millions of dollars of suspect funds into the U.S., raises serious questions about his character and the implications of associating with him.
“The allegations of terrorism sponsorship only serve to deepen our concerns. In a nation grappling with insecurity and the scourge of terrorism, the perception of a leader with such a checkered past could have dire consequences for our collective security and stability.
“As supporters, we have witnessed the devastating impact of corruption on our communities. We have seen how it perpetuates poverty, stifles economic growth, and erodes the fabric of our society. We cannot, in good conscience, support a ticket that may inadvertently endorse a legacy of corruption and mismanagement. Our collective aspiration for a new Nigeria, one built on the tenets of good governance, must not be compromised.
“We urge Mr. Obi to reflect on the long-term implications of this potential alliance. While the allure of power and political expediency may tempt him to accept the vice-presidential offer, we implore him to consider the broader picture. The path to true leadership is often fraught with difficult decisions, and it is essential to remain steadfast in the commitment to the principles that have guided him thus far.”
The group concluded by stressing their continued support for Obi as a symbol of hope, reform, and clean governance, urging him to remain true to the ideals that galvanized the Obidient Movement nationwide.
“We stand united in our quest for a better Nigeria, and we hope that Mr. Obi will choose a path that upholds the values we hold dear.”
