LAGOS, NIGERIA — Arise News anchor Rufai Oseni has lambasted the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, over his recent attack on the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Oseni also criticized Umahi’s self-acclaimed title as “Lion of the Southeast.”
The broadcaster spoke during Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show’ on Tuesday. He challenged Umahi to be a presidential candidate and get up to 6 million votes before comparing himself to Peter Obi.
Umahi’s Attack
The minister, at a town hall in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, said Peter Obi is nobody.
Umahi equally declared himself as the Lion of the Southeast. He called on South-East stakeholders to support President Bola Tinubu for 2027.
Oseni’s Reaction
Reacting, Oseni dismissed Umahi’s title and described it as empty poetry.
He said that a tiger does not need to announce that it is a tiger. He added that it just pounces.
“You can’t match Peter Obi; go get 6 million votes first,” Oseni said.
According to the broadcaster, the former Ebonyi State governor is free to call himself Lion of the Southeast. But he said Umahi must back it with electoral performance, not mouth.
What This Means
The exchange highlights the political tension ahead of the 2027 elections. It also shows the growing rivalry between supporters of the ruling party and the opposition.
For Oseni, the attack on Obi is unfounded. He believes Obi’s electoral record speaks for itself.
For Umahi, the support for Tinubu is a strategic political move.
What Happens Next
Umahi has not yet responded to Oseni’s remarks. The minister is expected to continue his campaign for the President.
For now, the focus is on the 2027 elections. The coming months will reveal how the political landscape shapes up.
