Omoyele Sowore, the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has lashed out at Labour Party’s Peter Obi, calling him a temporary political tool rather than a true opposition leader.
Speaking on Inside Sources on Channels Television on Sunday, Sowore argued that Obi has failed to live up to the expectations of a credible opposition figure. He criticized Obi for not mobilizing his supporters to reclaim the mandate he claimed was stolen in the 2023 elections. “He didn’t even attempt to defend the votes he said he won,” Sowore stated.
The AAC leader further claimed that Peter Obi has remained silent on major national issues, such as the hike in fuel prices and the worsening economic conditions under the current administration. “He said nothing when fuel prices were raised. That’s not what real opposition looks like,” Sowore added.
Dismissing suggestions that Obi is the leading face of the opposition ahead of the 2027 elections, Sowore insisted that Obi was never equipped to challenge the political establishment. He maintained that the former Anambra State governor was merely a placeholder in a larger, superficial political arrangement.
“My stance since 2022 hasn’t changed — Peter Obi is not a threat to the status quo. The illusion that he could overhaul the system was always just that: an illusion,” Sowore said. He added pointedly, “When they’re done with Peter Obi, they’ll move the rental to someone else. Maybe he’s just holding on for appearances.”
Sowore’s remarks deepen ongoing debates about the strength and direction of Nigeria’s political opposition.
