The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said he will not resort to personal attacks against President Bola Tinubu or other public office holders, stressing that the President has his respect.
Obi made the remarks on Friday while speaking at the 2026 All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Enugu, held under the theme, “The Ballot, the Media and the Task of Keeping Democracy Alive.”
The former Anambra State governor said political disagreements should centre on policies, governance and the performance of public officials rather than insults or 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.
However, Obi maintained that respecting public office holders should not prevent Nigerians, journalists or opposition politicians from questioning government decisions and scrutinising the performance of those in office.
“But I can argue on other issues, whether you’re doing well, or you’re not doing the right thing. That is allowed,” he said.
He also highlighted the influence of political leadership on society, saying the conduct and character of leaders can shape wider societal values.
Obi urged editors and journalists to continue examining political leaders based on their records, public statements and qualifications, emphasising the importance of accountability and responsible scrutiny in a democracy.
His comments come as political parties and their candidates begin positioning themselves ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with the role of the media and issue-based political discourse featuring prominently in discussions around the electoral process.
