Renowned Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has expressed his disapproval of Peter Obi’s fitness to lead Nigeria, citing the conduct of his supporters, known as ‘Obidients’, during the 2023 general elections.
Soyinka criticized Obi for failing to rein in his supporters who attacked others with opposing views online, which he believes demonstrates his unfitness to lead a diverse country like Nigeria.
In a recent interview, Soyinka recounted a personal experience where Obi had visited him and made a statement downplaying the actions of his supporters, only to later misrepresent their conversation in a public statement. Soyinka found this behavior to be dishonest and incapable of building trust.
Soyinka hopes that Obi will not contest the 2027 presidential election, as he believes his leadership style would be detrimental to the country’s unity and diversity. He emphasized that a leader who cannot tolerate opposing views and encourages online harassment is not suitable to preside over a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society like Nigeria.
Soyinka’s criticism stems from his concern for the country’s future and his belief that leaders should be held accountable for their actions and those of their supporters. He encourages Nigerians to scrutinize the behavior and character of those seeking leadership positions to ensure the country’s progress and unity.