Shettima Attacks Peter Obi, Calls Him Master Of Bogus Statistics Ahead Of 2027 Election

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has criticised Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), over his economic proposals and comparisons between Nigeria and other countries, describing him as a promoter of what he called “bogus statistics and incoherent economic prescriptions.”

According to Bush Radio Academy, Shettima made the remarks on Wednesday during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Although he described Obi as a personal friend, the Vice-President questioned the former Anambra State governor’s approach to economic analysis, particularly his references to countries such as Bangladesh when discussing Nigeria’s development challenges.

Shettima argued that economic policies successful in one country could not automatically produce similar results in another without considering differences in population, economic structures, institutions and national circumstances.

Using a clothing-size comparison to illustrate his argument, the Vice-President said Obi appeared convinced that a shirt designed for Bangladesh could fit Nigeria despite the differences between the two countries.

“He seems convinced that a size 36 shirt tailored for Bangladesh will somehow fit Nigeria’s size 52 frame,” Shettima said.

He maintained that effective governance required an understanding of a country’s unique social, economic, political and institutional realities rather than reliance on foreign models without appropriate adjustments.

According to Shettima, Nigeria’s population of more than 250 million people presented challenges that required policies specifically designed to address the country’s circumstances.

He argued that comparing Nigeria with other nations without adequately considering these differences could lead to inappropriate economic recommendations.

The Vice-President also challenged Obi over his claim that he won the 2023 presidential election, describing the assertion as unsupported by evidence and accusing the opposition politician of displaying what he termed a “delusion of grandeur.”

Shettima’s comments form part of the growing political exchanges among prominent figures ahead of the 2027 general election, as the ruling APC and opposition parties continue to debate economic management, governance and the country’s development priorities.

Obi’s economic proposals and criticisms of the government’s policies remain subjects of political debate as parties position themselves for the forthcoming presidential contest.