The Presidency has intensified its criticism of former Anambra State governor and 2027 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, declaring that he does not have what it takes to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the remarks in a statement shared on his verified X account on Wednesday.
The presidential aide described Obi as a “copy-and-paste politician” and argued that the former governor lacks the leadership record to challenge Tinubu.
According to Onanuga, Obi failed to demonstrate exceptional leadership during his eight years as governor of Anambra State.
He claimed that the former Labour Party presidential candidate has little to show for his time in office and accused him of lacking original ideas.
“Peter Obi has never shown original, authentic thinking. He is a copy-and-paste politician. Willie Obiano, his successor, said Obi failed spectacularly in providing security in the state.
“Nigeria deserves a leader who can see beyond the ken of the ordinary people, a leader who is a proven deep thinker and doer.
“Peter Obi is no match for President Bola Tinubu. They are not on the same level,” Onanuga said.
The presidential spokesman went further to draw a comparison between Obi’s tenure in Anambra and Tinubu’s administration in Lagos State. He argued that Tinubu left behind long-term development plans, including rail and road masterplans, which he said continue to shape the growth of Lagos years after he left office.
The latest comments add to the growing political exchanges ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the Presidency and opposition figures increasingly trading words over their records in office and their visions for the country.
Obi, who remains one of the leading opposition figures in Nigeria, has consistently defended his performance as governor, often pointing to his administration’s financial management and investments in education, healthcare and infrastructure. His supporters also maintain that his message of accountability and prudent governance continues to resonate with many Nigerians.
However, the Presidency has repeatedly dismissed his political strength, insisting that his popularity cannot match Tinubu’s political structure and experience.