A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has launched a scathing attack on the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, declaring that he would never become Nigeria’s President.
Fani-Kayode’s criticism followed remarks by Obi in which he drew comparisons between some present-day political actors and the late military ruler, Sani Abacha.
In a post shared on X on Friday, the former minister described Obi’s comments as offensive and insensitive, particularly to those who suffered during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle.
He said the remarks went beyond political discourse, adding that they undermined the sacrifices of individuals who fought against military rule.
According to him, Obi’s statement amounted to a slight on the memory of those who lost their lives and freedom during the June 12 struggle, especially members of the National Democratic Coalition.
“To ridicule the memory of those who paid the ultimate price in the fight for democracy is both unacceptable and reprehensible,” he stated.
Fani-Kayode further dismissed Obi’s political ambition, asserting that the former Anambra State governor stood no chance of leading the country.
“You shall never become President of our nation,” he declared.
Obi had, in a post on Thursday, described it as ironic that individuals once regarded as champions of democracy during the Abacha era were now perceived to be governing in ways worse than the dictatorship they opposed.
He stated that the late military leader might appear more respectful of democratic values when compared with some contemporary political actors, noting that “power indeed reveals character.”
Although Obi did not mention any individual, his comments have been widely interpreted within the context of ongoing political tensions, including the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress.
The crisis followed a decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission to derecognise a faction of the party’s leadership after a court ruling.
Opposition figures have since accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of orchestrating internal disputes within rival parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, an allegation the party has denied.
