By Our Reporter

Anambra-born activist Martin Nwabueze has urged Peter Obi to publicly defend himself against allegations and political attacks, warning that his conciliatory approach could undermine the political capital he has built over the years.

Mr. Martin Nwabueze, a United States-based Anambra-born activist and co-founder of Tilova 4 Africa, a US-based charity organisation, has called on Peter Obi to confront what he described as unprovoked political attacks and alleged smear campaigns against him.

Nwabueze made the call while reacting to debt-related allegations reportedly raised by Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, concerning Obi’s tenure as governor of the state.

The activist urged Obi to summon the courage to respond to his critics, arguing that his tendency to refer to political adversaries as “senior brothers” could be perceived as a sign of weakness.

According to Nwabueze, Obi’s commitment to maintaining cordial relationships should not prevent him from forcefully defending his record, reputation and political aspirations.

‘Obi Must Stop Allowing His Political Capital to Be Destroyed’

Nwabueze said Obi should no longer remain passive in the face of attacks that could damage the political foundation he had worked for years to establish.

“Obi should stop enabling people like Governor Soludo to destroy the political capital which he laboured many years to build.”

He alleged that the attacks against Obi were motivated by the political ambitions of those seeking to undermine his influence.

“What they have tried to do is bring him down, and this is for their own selfish political ambition,” Nwabueze said.

The activist also criticised Obi’s repeated reference to Soludo and others as his “senior brothers,” insisting that such a description was inconsistent with the traditional meaning of brotherhood in Igbo society.

“A senior brother is supposed to stand for you, love you and help you succeed. So, calling the governor who is trying to tear him down ‘senior brother’ is a sign of weakness.”

Nwabueze added that Obi’s approach to political disagreements raised questions about his willingness to confront those seeking to discredit him.

“These people are everywhere, insulting and discrediting him, trying hard to pull down the foundation upon which he built his political career, and he cannot react. What are you afraid of?” he asked.

‘The Presidency Requires Courage and Vibrancy’

The US-based activist further urged Obi to respond more assertively to allegations and criticism, arguing that the demands of presidential politics require a willingness to engage political opponents.

“His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi, has to come out and defend himself. He should also attack them in return. He is not running for the position of a parish priest but for the presidency of this country.”

Nwabueze maintained that remaining silent while describing his critics as senior brothers could create the impression that Obi was unwilling to challenge the allegations against him.

“Keeping quiet and referring to these people as his ‘senior brothers’ is indirectly validating the allegations against him,” he said.

He also argued that political battles are often fought through public perception, where allegations and insinuations can influence public opinion even without judicial proceedings.

“A presidential material needs courage and vibrancy. He should have a red line and stop asking his traducers for evidence,” Nwabueze stated.

Concluding his remarks, the activist urged Obi to adopt a more assertive political strategy.

“Politics is played in the court of public opinion, not in a law court. Nobody, including the governor, needs evidence to do damage. All they need are innuendos, allegations and propaganda. Peter has to fight back.”

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