Awuzie Defends Obi As Soludo, Umahi Intensify Campaign Criticism

A prominent academic and former union leader has pushed back against criticism of Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, from two senior government figures. Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie, who previously headed the Academic Staff Union of Universities, told reporters in Owerri that President Bola Tinubu and his associates would fail to undermine Obi's integrity or public reputation.

The remarks follow a campaign of public criticism directed at Obi by Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and Works Minister David Umahi. Umahi told an audience in Abuja that Obi cannot win the 2027 presidential election and called on South-East leaders to highlight President Tinubu's development projects in the Igbo region to reduce Obi's electoral support.

Awuzie countered that Soludo and Umahi lack the political standing to effectively challenge Obi and suggested they redirect their energy toward fulfilling their official duties rather than engaging in public disputes. He also appealed to Igbo regional leaders and the Ohanaeze Ndigbo organization to publicly defend Obi against what he characterized as coordinated attacks.

The exchange reflects mounting tensions within Nigeria's political establishment ahead of the 2027 presidential race. Umahi's explicit strategy to mobilize South-East figures against Obi signals an organized effort by the ruling All Progressives Congress to fracture support for the NDC candidate in a region where he commands substantial backing.

Awuzie's intervention underscores divisions among Igbo elites over how to position themselves in the coming election cycle.