In the theatre of Nigerian politics, where desperation often masquerades as analysis, it is sometimes necessary to separate the chaff of malice from the grain of truth. The recent commentary by Chukwuemerie Uduchukwu, echoing allegations made by Kenneth Okonkwo against Peter Obi and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), amounts to little more than a poorly constructed political attack designed to sow discord within a party that is steadily emerging as a formidable opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
From all available evidence, Peter Obi is not implicated in any alleged wrongdoing within the NDC. On the contrary, the former Anambra State governor has consistently demonstrated a commitment to integrity, accountability, and due process. Far from encouraging crises, Obi has repeatedly advocated transparency and internal reforms, even when powerful interests within the party resisted such efforts.
Kenneth Okonkwo, once regarded as a close ally, has increasingly positioned himself as a relentless critic whose allegations appear to grow more sensational with each public appearance. His claims that aspirants were induced with millions of naira only for results to be manipulated at a hotel in Abuja remain precisely what they are—unsubstantiated allegations. Beyond references to unnamed complainants, no credible evidence has emerged to support these accusations. There have been no widely documented petitions to electoral authorities, no court findings, and no independently verified proof establishing the claims as fact.
Nigerian political primaries are often contentious. Disputes, grievances, and allegations are common features of internal party contests. However, transforming isolated complaints into a narrative of widespread criminality allegedly orchestrated by Peter Obi is neither fair nor supported by evidence.
The more uncomfortable reality for Obi’s critics is that he reportedly attempted to curb some of the excesses associated with the primaries but faced resistance from entrenched party interests. As is often the case in a rapidly expanding political movement bringing together diverse groups and structures, internal disagreements and competing interests are inevitable. Throughout the process, Obi consistently appealed for unity, restraint, and focus on the broader objective of providing Nigerians with a viable alternative to the ruling APC.
Notably, some individuals believed to enjoy Obi’s support were themselves affected by controversial outcomes. Cases such as those involving Hon. Uche Okonkwo in Idemili North and South Federal Constituency and activist Aisha Yesufu in the Federal Capital Territory illustrate that internal disputes did not exclusively target opponents of Obi. Rather, they demonstrate that party structures often exercised authority independent of any single individual’s preferences. If anything, these examples weaken the argument that Obi controlled or manipulated outcomes.
Regarding reported tensions involving Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and candidate selections in parts of the Northwest, such disagreements are hardly unusual in political coalitions involving strong personalities and regional blocs. While differences undoubtedly exist, portraying them as evidence of an imminent collapse of the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance is speculative at best. Both leaders have repeatedly reaffirmed their commitment to the NDC project, while the party continues to consolidate its presence across the country through successful congresses, conventions, and organizational expansion.
The leadership of the NDC, including Senator Seriake Dickson and other key stakeholders, deserves recognition for steering a relatively young political platform through a period of rapid growth and intense political realignment. To dismiss the party as a temporary political experiment ignores the significant momentum it has generated and the growing number of Nigerians seeking an alternative political direction.
Political parties undergoing expansion invariably experience growing pains. Such challenges are neither unique to the NDC nor evidence of institutional failure. Mature democracies around the world have witnessed similar struggles during periods of political reorganization and coalition-building.
Peter Obi’s reputation for prudent governance, fiscal discipline, and people-centred leadership remains intact. Political attacks and unverified allegations cannot erase a public record that millions of Nigerians continue to regard as credible and inspiring. Those attempting to redefine him through conspiracy theories and sensational claims underestimate the ability of Nigerians to distinguish between fact and political propaganda.
The real anxiety within Nigerian politics today is not the conduct of NDC primaries. Rather, it is the growing realization among defenders of the status quo that an issue-driven movement centred on accountability, competence, and national renewal continues to gain momentum.
The appropriate course is clear: allow the outcomes of the primaries to stand where due process has been followed, provide legitimate avenues for internal redress where grievances exist, and focus collective attention on the larger task of rebuilding Nigeria.
Ultimately, the verdict that matters will not be delivered by political commentators, hotel-room rumours, or disgruntled former allies. It will be delivered by the Nigerian people themselves when the time comes.
Ogbuefi Ndigbo is a stakeholder and commentator on Igbo and national affairs.
