The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has addressed criticism from Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka, who stated that Obi was unfit to govern Nigeria.
Obi, speaking on Arise Television’s News program, expressed his desire to earn respect from younger generations, just like Soyinka, and emphasized his policy of not responding when his “fathers” speak.
Obi denied allegations that he incited his supporters, the “Obidients,” to attack or insult Soyinka, particularly online.
He maintained that he has never intentionally encouraged anyone to speak against others.
This response comes amidst the Democracy Day celebration, highlighting the ongoing dialogue and debates among Nigeria’s leaders and citizens.
He said: “Well, quite frankly, I will not make any comment on that. Wole Soyinka is a father. I have a policy as a father: I don’t respond when my fathers talk. I leave it to them because when I became at their age, I would want those other younger ones to respect me. Though I would try to put myself in a position where I will respect myself before that.
“But one of those he talked about is me inciting the ‘Obidients’. I assure you, I have never, and I will never, knowingly or unknowingly, ask the Obidients or the younger ones to say anything against a priest, immam or elder; it will never happen.
““I don’t make comments. It’s left for Nigerians to know whether I’m fit or not. I have been a successful businessman in the private sector. I have been in the corporate world, and I will say I am one of the most successful.
“I have also served in the state, and I ask those who attack to let us put our records and check them side by side.”