I Know For A Fact Peter Obi Encouraged ‘Obidients’ To Attack Me, Others With Opposing Views Online –Soyinka
Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka has accused Peter Obi, the former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, of orchestrating online attacks against him and others with dissenting opinions. Soyinka claims that Obi encouraged his supporters, known as ‘Obidients,’ to troll individuals critical of him during the presidential campaign.
In May 2023, Obi visited Soyinka after the latter faced backlash for criticizing remarks made by Datti Baba-Ahmed, the LP’s vice-presidential candidate. Despite Obi characterizing the meeting as reconciliatory, Soyinka denied any need for reconciliation, stating that there were no issues between him, Obi, or the Labour Party.
Soyinka clarified that while he knows and can relate to Peter Obi and the Labour Party, he cannot relate to the “Obidient” movement. He emphasized that the term “reconciliation” was inappropriate, as there were no conflicts to resolve. Instead, their discussions focused on leadership responsibilities, the burden of leadership, and other pertinent issues.
Soyinka revealed his disappointment with Obi’s leadership style, expressing doubts about his competence to lead Nigeria. He recounted observing Obi’s actions during their meeting, including sending messages to the ‘Obidients’ while appearing conciliatory in person. Soyinka criticized Obi for misrepresenting their meeting in subsequent statements, prompting him to publicly correct the narrative.
Despite pressure to prevent Obi from visiting his house, Soyinka chose to meet him face-to-face to assess him personally. He believes that Obi’s conduct during their meeting reflects his inability to be honest and transparent, indicating a lack of suitability for leadership.
Soyinka’s accusations against Obi shed light on the contentious nature of online discourse during political campaigns and highlight concerns about the integrity and transparency of political leaders.
SaharaReporters
