The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed the political strength of Peter Obi, describing his popularity as “AI politics” and insisting that the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) poses no threat to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election. Umahi also claimed Obi “cannot even face” him politically, let alone President Tinubu.
Minister of Works David Umahi has ruled out any possibility of Peter Obi defeating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, maintaining that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has no reason to fear the former Anambra State governor.
Umahi made the remarks while reacting to recent criticisms by Obi of the Tinubu administration, saying the opposition politician’s perceived popularity does not reflect political reality.
According to Umahi, neither he, President Tinubu nor the APC considers Obi a political threat.
The minister described Obi’s support base as “AI politics,” arguing that it is driven more by online narratives than by actual grassroots political strength.
He further claimed that Obi “cannot even face” him politically, insisting that the former governor would be unable to defeat President Tinubu in the 2027 election. Umahi also criticised Obi’s record as governor of Anambra State, questioning his performance in infrastructure and governance.
Umahi’s comments come amid heightened political exchanges ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition figures and ruling party leaders increasingly trading criticisms over governance, security and economic policies.
Peter Obi has recently criticised the Tinubu administration over insecurity and governance, while the APC has defended the government’s record and expressed confidence about retaining power in 2027.
As of the time of filing this report, Peter Obi had not publicly responded to Umahi’s latest remarks.
The comments have nevertheless generated widespread reactions across political circles and social media as preparations for the 2027 general election continue.
Umahi’s remarks add to the growing political rhetoric ahead of the next general election, with leaders across party lines increasingly making public declarations about their opponents’ electoral prospects. As campaigns gradually gather momentum, political debates over performance, popularity and governance are expected to intensify.