By Polycarp Nwaeke
From all indications, it appears the Presidency has unleashed Femi Fani-Kayode and Reno Omokri to tarnish the image of Peter Obi, the rising political star in Nigeria at the moment.
These two political jobbers seem relentless. No day passes without them throwing tantrums at Obi, who is widely regarded as one of the few non-corrupt politicians in the country.
If their criticisms were constructive and aimed at building a lasting democratic culture, no one would be bothered. Constructive criticism is a vital ingredient in strengthening democracy. But unfortunately, Fani-Kayode and Omokri fabricate lies and spread disinformation against individuals on a daily basis—particularly targeting Peter Obi.
What is Peter Obi’s offense? His only “crime” is daring to run for the Presidency for the good of his country. He joined the presidential race to serve the men and women of Nigeria.
In 2023, he contested under the Labour Party and came third, behind Atiku Abubakar and the now-President Bola Tinubu. Notably, he defeated Tinubu in Lagos State (Tinubu’s home state) and won overwhelmingly in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
Peter Obi remains a beacon of hope for many Nigerians who desire genuine change and accountable leadership.
Peter Obi’s Rising Popularity and the Envy It Sparks
Political observers, however, believe that Peter Obi actually won the 2023 Presidential election, but that its outcome was manipulated in favor of the current President.
Peter Obi’s growing support base, influence, and popularity are said to be giving the Presidency sleepless nights. Hence the resort to diatribes—pouring venom on him through the President’s aides and appointees.
Recently, Femi Fani-Kayode, a former minister and now ambassador-designate, came out openly and vowed that God would never allow Peter Obi to become Nigeria’s President.
As earlier stated, Femi Fani-Kayode’s angry outburst was born out of envy arising from Peter Obi’s growing support and increasing influence in the political affairs of the country.
Prior to this bitter utterance, the former Aviation Minister had already made many other disparaging statements against Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State.
Let’s dissect Chief Femi Fani-Kayode.
Femi Fani-Kayode is a politician without integrity—a chameleon and a man who has been severally prosecuted over his misdeeds and misconduct.
His repeated attacks on Peter Obi appear driven more by personal bitterness and desperation than by any genuine concern for the nation.
The Hypocrisy and Lack of Integrity in Femi Fani-Kayode’s Attacks on Peter Obi
While in office as a minister, he allegedly looted public funds for personal benefit. He is a selfish politician without any consistent political ideology. He jumps from one political party to another with the sole aim of benefiting from political patronage and shielding himself from corruption allegations.
The EFCC has severally prosecuted him over corruption and other related matters. His joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) is widely seen as a ploy to get appointed as an ambassador, allegedly to shield him from the corruption charges still hanging over his neck.
In comparison to Peter Obi—who has been investigated on several occasions (including during his time as governor) and found not to have been involved in any corrupt practices—whether as a governor, board member, or government appointee—Femi Fani-Kayode’s image is one of political prostitution and corruption.
His words against Peter Obi are simply a confirmation of his own ignorance of the concept of life, education, and destiny. Though he went to school, he talks like an educated illiterate. In no way can he be compared to Peter Obi, a man of integrity.
Femi Fani-Kayode and Reno Omokri have no integrity to speak of.
Interestingly, Femi Fani-Kayode once said unprintable things against Bola Tinubu in the past. But now that Tinubu has become President, they have suddenly switched to singing his praises.
This pattern of opportunism and lack of principle is what defines these attacks on Peter Obi—not any genuine concern for Nigeria.
The Opportunism of Peter Obi’s Critics and the Unstoppable Rise of Integrity
These individuals— Femi Fani-Kayode, Reno Omokri, and others—spend their time singing the praises of the President while throwing barbs at his political opponents, especially people like Peter Obi who have consistently told the truth and urged leaders to do the right things.
Tomorrow, if Peter Obi becomes President, they will quickly shift their loyalty to him, deny that they ever said those unprintable things against him, and pretend it never happened.
That is the kind of life they live: a life of betrayal, greed, and selfish political ambition. In Nigeria, the masses have rightly described such characters as “AGIP-Any Government in Power.”
Peter Obi, on the other hand, has meticulously built a reputation of integrity, excellence, and consistency. Nigerians have come to believe in and trust his kind of transparency and accountability.
The diatribes from Reno Omokri and Femi Fani-Kayode against him amount to nothing and will not stop him from fulfilling his political ambition and vision for a better Nigeria.
No amount of venom, lies, or sponsored attacks can erase the trust the people have placed in Peter Obi. Integrity speaks louder than propaganda, and the people are watching. If Peter Obi eventually leads this country, history will remember who stood for truth and who stood for personal gain.
