ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Bayo Onanuga, has dismissed claims by Peter Obi that the Federal Government is plotting to prevent his 2027 presidential bid, describing the allegations as a “fabricated narrative” designed to distract attention from the government’s reform agenda.
Onanuga, who serves as the President’s spokesperson, made the remarks on Tuesday while responding to Obi’s recent comments in which the Labour Party presidential candidate alleged that behind-the-scenes efforts were being made to ensure he does not appear on the ballot in the next general election.
“Peter Obi’s claims are nothing but a fabricated narrative,” Onanuga said in a statement. “There is no plot against him or any other political aspirant. The government is focused on delivering on its promises to Nigerians, not on engaging in the kind of political manipulation that Obi is suggesting.”
Obi, who was the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2023 election, had alleged during a lecture at Madonna University in Okija, Anambra State, that the Federal Government was doing everything to ensure he does not contest in the 2027 election. He also challenged President Tinubu and other presidential aspirants to an open debate on their plans for Nigeria.
Onanuga, however, urged Nigerians to disregard Obi’s allegations, describing them as an attempt to gain sympathy and distract from the President’s efforts to address the country’s challenges. He noted that the government remains committed to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in 2027.
“Peter Obi should focus on presenting his ideas to Nigerians rather than peddling conspiracy theories,” Onanuga added. “The government has no interest in stopping anyone from contesting elections. Nigerians will decide who they want as their leader in 2027.”
The exchange between Obi and the Presidency comes amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 general election, with various opposition figures positioning themselves for the contest. Obi’s comments have also been met with criticism from some quarters, with political analysts noting that the allegations lack evidence.
Obi has not yet responded to Onanuga’s dismissal of his claims. However, the NDC presidential candidate has previously stated that he is not afraid of the obstacles and remains focused on his ambition to lead Nigeria.
As the 2027 election approaches, the debate over the integrity of the electoral process and the role of political opposition continues to intensify. For now, the Presidency has made its position clear: there is no plot against Peter Obi, and the government is committed to a free and fair electoral process.
