ABUJA: The Presidency has launched a fresh attack on the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, describing the former Anambra State governor as “overhyped and overrated” ahead of the 2027 general election.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, made the remarks on Saturday while questioning Obi’s record in office and his suitability to lead Nigeria.
In a post on X, Onanuga dismissed the growing expectations surrounding Obi’s 2027 presidential ambition, arguing that supporters of the former Anambra governor have exaggerated his capacity to transform Nigeria.
The presidential aide described Obi as “clueless” and alleged that his administration in Anambra State was a “spectacular failure.”
Onanuga wrote: Peter Obi is simply overhyped and overrated. The guy is clueless. As Anambra governor, he was a spectacular failure.
He also rejected suggestions that Obi would automatically perform well if elected president, arguing that his supporters appear to expect him to achieve extraordinary results in office.
The latest criticism comes as political activities and alignments intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Obi, who previously contested the 2023 presidential election on the Labour Party platform, has remained a prominent figure in Nigeria’s opposition politics. His supporters have continued to campaign for his return to the presidential race, citing his record in Anambra and his proposed approach to economic and institutional reforms.
The Presidency, however, has consistently criticised Obi’s political record and questioned claims about his performance as Anambra governor.
The exchange highlights the increasingly confrontational political atmosphere surrounding the 2027 election, with supporters of President Tinubu and opposition figures trading criticisms over leadership records and economic performance.
While Onanuga’s latest comments reflect the Presidency’s position, his assessment of Obi’s tenure as governor is a political claim and remains subject to debate.
With the 2027 election approaching, Obi’s record in Anambra, Tinubu’s administration and the competing policy proposals of presidential hopefuls are expected to remain major issues in the emerging political contest.
