People Are Afraid To Greet Me, No Longer Invite Me To Events – Peter Obi

Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over what he described as growing division and hostility in Nigeria, saying the country must rediscover unity, compassion, and mutual respect.

Obi made the remarks during an interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, where he spoke on the nation’s political climate, his experiences as an opposition figure, and his vision for a more united Nigeria.

According to the former Anambra State governor, ethnic, political, and social divisions have deepened across the country, creating an atmosphere of distrust and animosity among citizens.

“We have divided the country, breeding hatred among us,” Obi said.

“I want to bring back unity where there’s division. I want to show love, compassion, care.”

The former Labour Party presidential candidate also alleged that many of his supporters and associates have become reluctant to publicly identify with him out of fear of possible repercussions.

Obi claimed that some people, particularly those from his home state of Anambra, deliberately avoid greeting him in public because they fear being perceived as his supporters.

“To the Anambra people I know, at the airport they will not greet me because they are afraid that if they greet me, they become targets of the government,” he alleged.

He further claimed that some families who initially invite him to their personal events later withdraw the invitations, citing concerns over possible consequences.

“I have people send me invitations and say, ‘My son, my daughter is waiting. But please don’t come,'” Obi stated, suggesting that the decisions were influenced by fear.

The opposition figure also accused the government of deliberately frustrating his daily activities and targeting those who belong to the opposition.

“They’re attacking everybody who is in opposition personally. I am being attacked personally. Everything,” he said.

Recalling a recent experience, Obi alleged that officials at an airport locked his vehicle while leaving other cars parked in the same area untouched.

“I had a case recently at the airport where people who work in the airport came and locked my car,” he said.

According to Obi, he questioned the action and observed airport officials conferring among themselves while other vehicles remained undisturbed, leading him to believe that he was being singled out.

His comments come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with opposition leaders increasingly criticizing the administration of President Bola Tinubu over governance, democratic space, and the treatment of political opponents.