Presidency Blasts Obi Over Makinde’s Campaign Office Launch Attendance

The Presidency has criticised Peter Obi over his attendance at the launch of Seyi Makinde’s campaign office in Abuja, questioning the decision by the presidential candidate to appear at an event organised by another political platform.

Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, accused Obi of seeking publicity through political appearances.

Bwala made the criticism on Tuesday while reacting to Obi’s presence at the campaign office launch held in Abuja on Monday.

Obi used the occasion to appeal for political tolerance and national unity. He urged Nigerians to move away from bitterness and embrace a more united approach to politics.

However, Bwala argued that Obi’s attendance raised questions because he is himself a presidential candidate.

According to the presidential aide, Obi’s appearance at the event appeared inconsistent with his position as a candidate of another political party.

“He appears increasingly comfortable with political content creation,” Bwala said in a post on X.

He questioned why Obi would publicly participate in the activities of another presidential candidate while seeking votes under his own political platform.

Bwala also took issue with Obi’s apparent endorsement of the host party during the event, arguing that the development deserved greater public scrutiny.

The presidential aide suggested that some media outlets had paid little attention to what he described as a contradiction in Obi’s political activities.

He further argued that greater focus on the episode could affect the image Obi has cultivated as a serious presidential contender.

“His appearance at another candidate’s campaign event raises a simple question: is this political strategy or publicity?” Bwala asked.

The criticism has added another layer to the growing political contest ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with political actors increasingly scrutinising the public engagements of major contenders.