A member of the House of Representatives representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Victor Afam Ogene, has alleged that recent political and electoral developments in Nigeria are targeted at weakening Peter Obi’s political influence.
Ogene made the claim while addressing journalists in Obeagwe during the Uno Festival, which marks the end of the planting season. He argued that the situation goes beyond internal issues within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the real focus is on undermining Obi.
He stressed that democracy thrives on genuine competition and the availability of choices for voters. According to him, any effort to restrict political options could push the country toward authoritarian rule.
He also called on the judiciary to look beyond strict legal interpretations and consider the broader impact of their rulings on fairness and national stability.
The lawmaker pointed to what he described as a pattern of events suggesting a coordinated effort against Obi.
He cited an April 2025 Supreme Court ruling that effectively ended the tenure of Julius Abure, noting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) initially said it was reviewing the judgment.
However, Ogene claimed that INEC only issued a definitive position after Obi expressed interest in joining the ADC, despite having remained silent for months.
He further alleged that previously inactive legal disputes resurfaced around the same time, describing the timing as intentional.
Ogene also accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of attempting to consolidate political power without fair competition, saying this explains the recent developments in the political landscape.
Despite these concerns, he maintained that Obi and his supporters remain determined and will continue to pursue alternative political platforms, even as he alleged attempts to weaken opposition parties from within.
