2027 Election: Rufai Oseni Questions Peter Obi’s Consistency As NDC Faces Internal Disagreements

Arise Television presenter Rufai Oseni has criticised Peter Obi over what he described as inconsistencies in the former Anambra State governor’s policy positions, arguing that the issue may have contributed to the loss of some supporters who backed him during the 2023 presidential election.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Oseni made the remarks while discussing the preparedness of opposition parties for the 2027 presidential election, following comments by Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Don Ulasi.

Oseni argued that some Nigerians who supported Obi in the last election had become dissatisfied with his positions on key national issues, particularly the debate over petrol subsidy.

He said the perceived changes in Obi’s stance had raised questions about his consistency and could affect his ability to retain the support he enjoyed during the previous election cycle.

During the discussion, Ulasi described Obi as the only serious opposition figure capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. However, he expressed doubts about the opposition’s level of preparation, citing what he considered insufficient grassroots mobilisation and town hall meetings by leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Reacting to Ulasi’s assessment, Oseni questioned Obi’s political visibility and raised concerns about reported disagreements within the NDC, including tensions involving the OK Movement.

The broadcaster suggested that internal disputes could undermine confidence in the party and create uncertainty over whether its leadership was adequately representing the interests and aspirations of its supporters.

Oseni also questioned the absence of a clearly articulated manifesto from Obi, particularly on the petrol subsidy debate. He argued that the politician’s position appeared to have changed, noting that Obi had previously indicated support for retaining the subsidy but had subsequently spoken in favour of removing it while addressing alleged corruption within the system.

The criticism comes as opposition parties face increasing pressure to demonstrate their readiness to challenge Tinubu in 2027. Ulasi’s concerns about grassroots engagement, alongside Oseni’s questions about Obi’s policy consistency and party unity, have brought renewed attention to the challenges confronting the opposition ahead of the next presidential election.