Look in the mirror first, you can't lecture Peter Obi - NDC blasts Wike

A fresh conflict has erupted between the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), concerning their respective presidential candidates, Peter Obi. The NDC has admonished Wike to cease acting as a paragon of unity, asserting he lacks authority to counsel Obi on topics such as tolerance or effective leadership.

The dispute originated following Wike's criticism of Obi's conduct at a town hall meeting in Lagos. Wike alleged Obi remained seated while the current national anthem played, but rose when the old anthem resumed. The minister branded this behavior as lawlessness and a strategy to divide the nation.

In response, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) released a statement through the National Campaign Council's spokesperson, Chiogo Constance Ikokwu. Ikokwu criticized Wike for judging Obi without examining his own history. She expressed shock at a man, whose name has been associated with conflict, division, and prolonged instability in and outside Rivers State, now attempting to be the arbiter of Nigerian politics.

Ikokwu pointed to Wike's role in the post-2023 presidential election crisis in Rivers and his fluctuating allegiance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) as examples of his lack of consistency.

According to Ikokwu, Wike's recent emphasis on unity should not be taken seriously. She emphasized that Minister Wike needs to introspect and cannot lecture Peter Obi or anyone else on unity.