Political Tensions Escalate: NDC Rebuts Wike’s Criticism of Peter Obi Over Anthem Controversy

A political dispute has emerged between the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike following comments regarding the conduct of presidential candidate Peter Obi at a recent rally in Lagos. The exchange centers on the use of national anthems, with both sides trading accusations regarding national loyalty and political integrity.

The Minister’s Allegations

During a stakeholders’ town hall meeting in the Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike criticized Peter Obi for his behavior during the singing of the national anthem. According to Wike, Obi remained seated during the rendition of the current national anthem but stood when an alternative version—the former national anthem—was sung by supporters at the NDC event.

Wike argued that this behavior reflects a lack of commitment to national unity. He stated, as reported by Channels Television, that a candidate who disregards national symbols demonstrates a lack of faith in the country and should not be entrusted with the presidency. Wike further suggested that such actions imply a desire to divide the nation.

NDC’s Response and Defense

In a statement released on Saturday, Dr. Chiogo Ikokwu, spokesperson for the NDC National Campaign Council, rejected the Minister’s characterization of the event. The party asserted that the singing of the old national anthem was an impromptu act by the attendees rather than a planned or scripted political maneuver.

The NDC further clarified that the current national anthem was also performed during the same event, suggesting that the Minister’s focus on the incident is a distraction. The statement read, “If you watched another part of the video, they went on to sing the current national anthem. Minister Wike should stop distracting Nigerians from the gargantuan failures of the government he’s trying very hard to sell.”

Questioning Moral Authority

Beyond the specific incident in Lagos, the NDC challenged Wike’s standing to critique the political conduct of others. Dr. Ikokwu characterized the Minister’s comments as hypocritical, citing his past political activities in Rivers State and his transitions between political parties as evidence of his own controversial record.

The NDC statement remarked, “You cannot be an arsonist in your own backyard and turn up elsewhere preaching fire safety.” The party maintained that Wike lacks the moral authority to serve as a “referee of Nigerian politics” and urged a return to substantive policy debates.

Looking Ahead

The NDC concluded its response by emphasizing that the upcoming election cycle should prioritize pressing national issues, specifically the state of the economy and the hardships currently faced by citizens under the incumbent administration. As of the time of reporting, there has been no further public response from the FCT Minister regarding the NDC’s rebuttal. The incident highlights the intensifying political rhetoric as stakeholders mobilize for the 2027 election cycle.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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