A civil society organisation, Defence for Democracy, has criticised the alleged governorship ambition of former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, accusing him of engaging in what it described as “optics politics” ahead of the 2027 elections in Enugu State.
The group’s criticism followed the commencement of candidate uploads by political parties to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal for governorship and state assembly elections.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Emeka Nwachukwu, the organisation alleged that Nnaji and his supporters were attempting to portray routine public appearances as evidence of growing political influence.
According to the group, Nnaji’s attendance at the commissioning of the Arab/Gbazango Road project in Abuja had been exaggerated into a political endorsement.
“There is a dangerous pattern emerging in our political space today—the deliberate attempt to turn ordinary moments into imaginary political victories. A simple attendance at a government event is repackaged as a political earthquake. A handshake is marketed as an endorsement, while a brief conversation is presented as evidence of political dominance,” the statement said.
The organisation argued that attendance at public events or exchanging pleasantries with political figures should not be interpreted as proof of electoral strength or the formation of new political alliances.
It further alleged that photographs circulated after the event were being used to create a misleading impression of Nnaji’s political relevance, insisting that “a ceremony remains a ceremony and a courtesy interaction remains a courtesy interaction.”
The group also referred to the forgery allegations reportedly facing the former minister, claiming he should be focused on clearing his name rather than pursuing what it described as publicity-driven politics. It further alleged that his interaction with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was facilitated by former Senator Mao Ohuabunwa rather than initiated by Nnaji himself.
According to the statement, political relevance should be determined by grassroots support and public confidence rather than appearances with influential personalities.
The organisation praised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, describing him as a leader whose projects and grassroots engagement had strengthened his standing among residents.
It maintained that voters would ultimately decide based on leadership performance, competence and vision rather than media publicity or photographs with political figures.
“Ndi Enugu do not need political drama disguised as progress. They need serious conversations about jobs, education, healthcare, infrastructure, security and economic development,” the statement added.
The group concluded that no amount of political image-making could replace the will of the electorate, urging politicians to focus on issues that directly affect the people rather than symbolic public appearances.