Political and Current Affairs Commentator and Professor of Communications at Baze University, Abuja, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi has said that Peter Obi continues to provide a counter-narrative to the ruling party amid growing fragmentation within Nigeria’s opposition.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, Prof. Adeniyi gave an analysis of Peter Obi’s earlier interview and the political landscape in Nigeria.
“It is good that we are hearing from him again because the opposition has been fragmented over the last couple of months. Since the conclusion of the last election, we have relied mostly on civil society individuals rather than opposition political parties to provide a counter-narrative to the ruling party. Along with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, he represents one of the few voices providing that alternative,” he said.
Prof. Adeniyi also referenced ongoing controversies around electoral administration and internal party disputes, warning that such tensions highlight deeper challenges within Nigeria’s democratic and legal processes.
“It is unfortunate for the INEC Chairman that his controversy has started so early. While he is trying to be legalistic in his interpretation, political processes in Nigeria are not just about legalism; political considerations must matter. The bane of our process is the externalization of internal party dynamics to the judiciary, where technicalities often detract from the soul of party dynamics,” he warned.
Speaking on the state of insecurity in Nigeria, Prof. Adeniyi underscored that it is driven by a combination of structural and socioeconomic factors, including poverty, unemployment, weak institutions, and declining opportunities for young people.
“He has been consistent in his narrative of turning the arable land in the North into ‘the new crude oil.’ When there is that level of consistency, people begin to believe it. However, we know insecurity is a conflation of factors: de-industrialization, lack of education, hopelessness, poverty, and misgovernance.”
He noted that while Peter Obi’s proposals such as expanding agriculture in the North may contribute to addressing some root causes, they cannot on their own resolve the complexity of the crisis.
“However, we know insecurity is a conflation of factors: de-industrialization, lack of education, hopelessness, poverty, and misgovernance. While introducing agriculture to the North is a step toward a solution, it may not be the complete answer. There is always an ‘X-factor’ in governance where you don’t know the full reality until you are inside. But we can take solace in his conviction and the fact that he provides a clear alternative,” he said.
On whether Peter Obi’s approach represents a lasting shift in Nigeria’s political culture, Prof. Adeniyi said it shows a calmer and more measured style.
“Overall, he is measured. He is reflexively and reflectively introspective when he speaks. He is calm, picks his words carefully, and often speaks with deep wisdom.”
He added that political reality is usually more complicated than campaign messages, as alliances, party structures, and leadership talks can quickly change expectations.
“One example is the idea that turning the North into arable land is the sole solution to the crisis. Additionally, regarding the ADC, he presented the situation as if it wouldn’t be as difficult as we are seeing. It would have been interesting to watch the political calculations within the ADC play out—who would fly the flag or be the running mate—but now there is significant uncertainty. We also know it won’t be a bed of roses; I don’t believe he will maintain the same level of popularity he had a few years ago if he plays ‘second fiddle’ to anyone else in that party,” he explained.
He concluded that the interview did not alter existing perceptions of Peter Obi, as it simply reaffirmed his consistency and known political style. According to him, Obi continues to stand out in contrast to a system often criticised for weak accountability and transparency, offering Nigerians an alternative.
“It didn’t really change anything; it is the Peter Obi we know. He remains very consistent. He stands as a contrast to a system often bedeviled by a lack of transparency and accountability. His lifestyle, modesty, and serious-mindedness are reflective of his character. Even if he doesn’t get there in the end, Nigeria benefits from having someone who represents a genuine alternative.”
Favour Odima
