Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has stirred political debate after criticizing former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and questioning his seriousness about winning the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during a recent political discussion, Adeyanju acknowledged Obi’s influence in mobilizing young Nigerians and bringing many politically disillusioned citizens into mainstream democratic participation during and after the 2023 elections.
He also credited Obi with attracting support from groups and individuals previously associated with separatist sentiments, arguing that the former Anambra governor helped redirect some frustrations into electoral politics rather than street agitation.
However, Adeyanju dismissed Obi’s chances of defeating President Bola Tinubu in 2027, citing Obi’s decision to leave the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) before its 2022 presidential primaries as evidence that he avoids difficult internal political battles.
According to him, serious presidential contenders must be prepared to build stronger political structures and confront entrenched party systems directly.
The remarks quickly triggered reactions from members of the Obidient Movement and Obi supporters online, many of whom accused Adeyanju of unfairly downplaying Obi’s political strength and grassroots appeal.
Some supporters resurfaced past controversies involving Adeyanju, including his previous legal battles and acquittals, while others criticized what they described as selective attention to opposition politics amid worsening national insecurity and economic hardship.
Several online users also referenced recent violent incidents, including attacks in Oyo State involving abducted school staff and the killing of teacher Michael Oyedokun, arguing that national security concerns deserved greater public attention than political mockery.
The controversy comes amid continuing political realignments surrounding Obi, who has experienced multiple party transitions in recent years—from the PDP to the Labour Party, and more recently to political alliances linked with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Analysts say the exchange reflects growing tensions within Nigeria’s opposition landscape as various political actors debate coalition-building strategies and the possibility of a united front against the ruling APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
Observers also note that Obi remains one of the most polarizing and influential figures in Nigeria’s evolving political environment, continuing to generate strong support and criticism across social and political divides.
