A socio-political group, the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), said it has been hinted of an alleged unofficial directive within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) instructing its members, especially top political appointees, to focus their efforts on discrediting the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to undermine their rising influence.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, POMR spokesman, Idris Zekeri, said the recent seemingly coordinated and unprovoked criticisms directed at Obi and Senator Kwankwaso by these top APC members and government appointees, highlight a concerning pattern in contemporary politics.
“It has become increasingly evident that attacking Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso personally has become a common tactic for politicians seeking to gain favour and secure favourable positions within President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“Instead of concentrating on the significant responsibilities of showcasing their achievements to the people who elected them and justifying why they deserve a fresh mandate, the ruling party seem to be prioritising political posturing over governance.
“While they are occupied with attempting to diminish Mr Obi’s widespread national appeal, crucial sectors under their stewardship are neglected. With citizens grappling with escalating security concerns, a decline in public school and healthcare facilities, and a rising cost of living that impacts the populace daily.
“Since the UN-World Food Programme (WFP) warned of catastrophic hunger of over 17 million in the North, the APC administration at federal, state, and local governments in the nine northern states has not taken any proactive action; instead, they are fixated on the opposition. At a time when public servants should be working diligently to provide concrete improvements and infrastructure for Nigerians, they are choosing flattery over effective service,” he said.
Zekeri said trying to use Obi or Kwankwaso as a political scapegoat will not lead to improved living standards for citizens, nor will it enhance security in the country.
“The Nigerian populace recognises this distraction for what it is: cheap diversionary blackmail to distract the public from their obvious failure. POMR wish to therefore call on the ruling class to remember that their primary allegiance lies with the Nigerian people, not with a campaign of political subservience.
“We also suggest that President Bola Tinubu should evaluate his appointees based on their tangible performance and achievements in office, rather than the intensity of their attacks on opposition figures,” he added.
