Veteran journalist and political analyst Babajide Otitoju has declared Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate and current African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition leader, as Nigeria’s most formidable opposition figure, warning that underestimating him could be the All Progressives Congress’s (APC) gravest mistake. Speaking on TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout on July 20, 2025, Otitoju highlighted Obi’s growing influence, fueled by his recent alignment with Atiku Abubakar and other political heavyweights under the ADC banner.
Obi’s political ascent began with his 2023 presidential campaign, where he secured 25% of the vote, finishing third behind Tinubu (37%) and Abubakar (29%). His “Obidient” movement, born from the 2020 EndSARS protests, mobilized millions of young Nigerians frustrated with economic stagnation and governance failures under former President Muhammadu Buhari. The movement’s momentum has only grown, with Obi’s recent defection to the ADC alongside figures like former Senate President David Mark and ex-APC stalwart Rotimi Amaechi signaling a seismic shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. Otitoju argued that Obi’s frugality, grassroots appeal, and focus on issues like education and poverty alleviation make him a unique threat to the APC’s dominance.
The analyst’s warning comes amid escalating tensions between Obi and the APC, exemplified by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent remarks cautioning Obi against visiting the state without security clearance. The controversy, which drew condemnation from the Labour Party and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, highlighted Obi’s ability to unsettle the ruling party. Otitoju emphasized that Obi’s appeal transcends regional and religious divides, noting his victories in Christian-dominated southern states and parts of the north in 2023, a feat that challenges the APC’s narrative of national unity under Tinubu.
