Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, has described Peter Obi as one of the most highly attacked individuals in Nigerian politics, attributing the scrutiny to the transformative agenda he brings rather than personal failings.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS on Wednesday, Tanko highlighted specific examples of what he described as misinformation and propaganda against the former Anambra State governor.
He said, “When you look at the narrative of individuals being attacked, Peter Obi is one of the most highly attacked individuals in Nigerian politics as of today. And not because he is Peter Obi, no. It’s because what he’s bringing to the table is changing the narrative from an old order to a new order.”
He recalled discussions with Obi regarding the “250 million saga,” noting, “You never hear these kind of stories, except when you hear it from the horse’s mouth. And I was amazed, because I’ve been with him for quite a long period of time. But in the way he narrates the story, it shocks me that such an information is not in the public domain.”
He also defended Obi against criticisms arising from a viral video showing him serving food at a public event. Tanko stated, “If you watch the video, you see me right behind him. So I was just looking at him. He was serving and I was wondering, what are you doing? He said, you don’t understand. What we are doing today is that we are reversing the case in our society. Let’s take care of the poor. Let’s serve the poor.”
On the subject of political affiliations, Tanko clarified Obi’s position within the Labour Party and his role in the ADC alliance for 2027, saying,
“Peter Obi is a member of the Labour Party. He has made it categorically clear. But he is a part of the ADC alliance for 2027. Clearly, he doesn’t own two political party cards. And right from the beginning, if you know, this is a coalition of individuals. He’s not the only one even.”
Tanko further addressed claims about a leaked audio tape, asserting, “No. Did you ever hear from Peter Obi saying that that was exactly what happened? He’s a man of his own. He speaks to the issue. And besides, when somebody relates with individuals, somebody will go and tape it. You know we are using AI nowadays.”
He emphasised Obi’s integrity and commitment to public service, explaining, “He’s an integrity-driven individual, which is what we do not see over the years in our country. He said he will leave office on the 27th or 28th, a day before the handover.”
Tanko also insisted that Obi’s appeal to Nigerians remains unmatched, particularly in his ability to mobilize support across the country.
“The most strongest tools that Peter Obi has is the Nigerian people. He’s the only candidate as of today that can give you a block vote of Nigerians without shaking. He remains to be challenged,” he said.
Tanko consistently framed Obi as a principled leader whose actions challenge entrenched political norms, insisting that attacks against him are largely driven by resistance to change rather than personal failings.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
