NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi has said he will never personally abuse or insult President Bola Tinubu, insisting that the President has his respect.
Obi made the statement on Friday, September 25, while speaking at the 2026 All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Enugu, organised under the theme, “The Ballot, the Media and the Task of Keeping Democracy Alive.”
The former Anambra State governor said political disagreements should focus on government policies and performance rather than personal attacks.
“I cannot abuse any governor. I cannot abuse anybody in government. I don’t need to abuse people even in the federal government. I’ve never abused anybody. Who has seen me calling President Tinubu’s name? Never! I will not do that. He’s the President of the country, he has all my respect,” Obi said.
He, however, stressed that respecting a public official does not prevent citizens or the media from questioning their decisions and performance.
“But I can argue on other issues, whether you’re doing well, or you’re not doing the right thing. That is allowed,” he added.
Obi also urged the media to assess political leaders based on their records, statements, qualifications and conduct, saying the character of leaders influences the values of society.
He called for issue-based political campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, with greater attention on governance, accountability and public policy.
