A former media aide to President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, has taken aim at Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate.
Ahmad claims Obi has no place in meaningful political discourse if he cannot control his harsh and alleged toxic supporters.
The controversy stems from Obi’s decision to congratulate former Head of State Yakubu Gowon on his 90th birthday.
Obi clarified his stance, emphasizing forgiveness and reconciliation in moving Nigeria forward.
However, Ahmad, taking to X, insists that Obi must demonstrate commitment to Nigeria’s unity and respect for its history and figures. As an aspiring leader, Obi should promote oneness and forgiveness.
Obi’s congratulatory message sparked mixed reactions, with some criticizing his decision due to Gowon’s role in the Nigerian-Biafran civil war.
The Labour Party candidate has urged his supporters to focus on building a new Nigeria, rather than dwelling on past conflicts.
Ahmad’s criticism highlights the challenges of reconciling past conflicts in Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
The debate surrounding Obi’s gesture underscores the need for leaders to balance competing interests and emotions while promoting unity and progress.
An X post by Ahmad reads: “If Peter Obi cannot control his harsh and toxic supporters, then he has no business or a place in meaningful political discourse.
“Why does Peter Obi have to explain his decision to congratulate General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), one of Nigeria’s respected elder statesmen?
“Peter Obi and his toxic supporters need to understand that as an aspiring leader of this great nation, unity and respect for Nigeria’s history and its figures are a must.
“Without believing in oneness of this country, neither Peter Obi nor his supporters have a place in meaningful political discourse.”
