Former Kaduna Central senator Shehu Sani has criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), for attending the inauguration of the campaign office of Seyi Makinde, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM)’s presidential aspirant in Abuja on Monday. In a post on his X handle on Tuesday, Sani compared Obi’s political gesture to “selling Pepsi and doing promo for Coke,” highlighting what he sees as a contradiction in Obi’s actions given his own candidacy. The event, held in the nation’s capital, drew several high-profile attendees, including Bala Mohammed, the National Leader of the APM and Governor of Bauchi State.
Mohammed used the occasion to caution Nigerians against underestimating the APM and its presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections. He emphasized the party’s growing momentum and commitment to delivering change through democratic processes. His remarks underscored the increasing visibility of the APM as a serious contender in the upcoming electoral landscape. The presence of Obi at the event has sparked debate across political circles, with many questioning the strategic implications of his attendance.
Obi, who recently secured the NDC’s presidential ticket, is now seen by some as attempting to build alliances or broaden his appeal beyond his immediate party base. However, critics like Sani argue that such moves could dilute his own campaign message and confuse voters. The former senator’s sharp metaphor suggests a deeper concern about political integrity and consistency among candidates vying for national leadership. His comment has since gained traction on social media, reigniting discussions about coalition-building and party loyalty in Nigerian politics.
The inauguration of Makinde’s campaign office marks a significant step in the APM’s preparations for the 2027 elections. It signals the party’s readiness to engage in active campaigning and mobilize support nationwide. With prominent figures like Mohammed and Obi present, the event attracted widespread attention from political analysts and media outlets. Observers note that such cross-party engagements may become more common as candidates seek broader coalitions to enhance their chances of victory.
As Nigeria approaches the next general election cycle, the dynamics between political parties and their candidates are expected to intensify. Obi’s participation in the APM event, while potentially symbolic of unity, has also drawn scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest. The coming months will reveal whether these inter-party interactions translate into lasting alliances or remain isolated gestures. For now, the political scene remains fluid, with every move closely watched by voters and opponents alike.
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