The administration of President Bola Tinubu has ridiculed former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, Peter Obi, over claims that his packed political schedule had left him physically drained.
Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, took aim at the opposition figure following discussions about his reported health condition, stating that Obi was no different from other human beings and could equally suffer illness.
While wishing the former Labour Party presidential contender a speedy return to good health, Onanuga questioned the viability of his political aspiration, suggesting that his latest attempt at securing the presidency would eventually end unsuccessfully.
He conveyed his position in a Tuesday post on X, reacting to remarks from the NDC Deputy Campaign Spokesperson, Dr Sam Omale, who had earlier dismissed speculation about the politician’s wellbeing.
In his response, Onanuga described Obi as someone who was equally vulnerable to physical challenges, writing: “So, Saint Peter Obi is not a Superman after all. He can fall ill like all mortals. I wish him a quick recovery so he can rejoin what looks like another doomed presidential campaign.”
The development comes amid growing conversations about the opposition candidate’s physical condition, with reports attributing his alleged fatigue to an intense programme of political meetings, extensive journeys and other activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Addressing the matter during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Omale dismissed suggestions that Obi was battling an underlying health problem.
He explained that the former governor was medically fine but had become worn out from his numerous commitments, making it necessary for those around him to encourage him to take time off and recharge.
Omale attributed the situation to Obi’s demanding lifestyle, explaining that the presidential hopeful often combines several assignments instead of concentrating on one responsibility at a time.
He noted that the NDC candidate frequently moves from one destination to another within a few hours, with barely enough time to recover before undertaking another engagement.
Giving an example of his hectic movements, Omale disclosed that Obi could travel abroad to London and still make an appearance in Enugu the next day while continuing to attend to other pressing matters.
He stressed that the situation was nothing beyond physical tiredness and should not be interpreted as a serious medical concern.
According to him, the reported exhaustion would not affect the opposition party’s electoral preparations, as Obi was expected to maintain his town hall engagements ahead of the larger campaign gatherings.
Omale also commended the former governor’s determination and work ethic, admitting that the volume of responsibilities he handles sometimes leaves him wondering how he manages to keep up with everything.
However, Osa Director, another spokesperson for the NDC, presented a different perspective, disclosing that he had no knowledge of any health-related development involving Obi or an occasion where campaign officials had to persuade him to slow down.
Director explained that he had recently accompanied the presidential candidate during activities in Bayelsa State and had not noticed anything suggesting that he was experiencing health difficulties.
He maintained that, from his personal interaction with Obi, the former Anambra governor appeared to be in good condition.
