The Nigeria Democratic Congress says criticism of Peter Obi by political opponents is linked to what the party describes as his expanding national acceptance ahead of the 2027 election.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has attributed recent criticism of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to what it describes as growing nationwide support for the former Anambra State governor.
The party’s position comes amid a series of public exchanges involving Obi and political figures associated with the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Federal Government.
In recent days, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga criticised Obi over the former governor’s record in Anambra State, particularly the dispute over loans and financial obligations associated with his tenure.
Onanuga accused Obi of attempting to mislead Nigerians and questioned his record in Anambra while challenging his claim that he could transform Nigeria.
APC figures have also criticised Obi’s political record and campaign messaging, while supporters of the NDC presidential candidate have defended him against such attacks.
The NDC argues that the increased attention surrounding Obi demonstrates the growing relevance of his candidacy as the 2027 election approaches.
That interpretation, however, is the party’s political assessment and is not independently measurable without broader evidence such as credible nationwide polling or other indicators of voter preference.
Obi’s political profile remains significant following his 2023 presidential campaign, in which he finished third with more than six million votes.
His political platform has since changed. He is now the presidential candidate of the NDC, with Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate, while the party has been building a campaign structure ahead of the 2027 election.
The NDC leadership has also held consultations involving Obi, Kwankwaso and national leader Seriake Dickson as it develops its campaign organisation.
The party’s latest response comes as political parties increasingly focus on their presidential candidates’ public profiles, records and policy positions ahead of the election.
The competing narratives over Obi’s popularity and record are therefore likely to remain a major feature of the political debate as the 2027 campaign progresses.