Fresh political exchanges have emerged ahead of future elections. David Umahi says Peter Obi cannot challenge him or President Bola Tinubu, renewing criticism of the former Anambra governor.
ABUJA, NIGERIA — David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has dismissed Peter Obi as a political threat to President Bola Tinubu, saying the former Labour Party presidential candidate “cannot even face” him. Umahi made the remarks during a public engagement while commenting on Nigeria’s political landscape, according to reports.
Umahi said Obi lacks the political strength to compete with either him or President Tinubu. The minister also questioned Obi’s performance during his time as governor of Anambra State, arguing that his administration did not deliver the level of development expected by residents. According to Umahi, the current administration remains focused on infrastructure and national development.
Speaking further, Umahi defended the policies of President Tinubu’s administration and urged Nigerians to assess political leaders based on their achievements in office. He maintained that the Federal Government would continue implementing projects across the country despite criticism from opposition figures. “Peter Obi knows he can’t face me or Tinubu,” Umahi said while addressing supporters.
The latest comments add to the ongoing political exchanges between leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Labour Party. Since the 2023 general election, prominent members of both parties have continued to disagree over governance, economic policies and the direction of the country. Peter Obi has consistently called for accountability and reforms, while government officials have defended the administration’s performance.
The development means political rhetoric is likely to remain active as parties position themselves ahead of future electoral contests. Observers expect more exchanges between government officials and opposition leaders in the coming months as national issues continue to dominate public discourse. Neither Peter Obi nor the Labour Party had issued an official response to Umahi’s latest remarks at the time of filing this report.
