***Challenges VP to compare governance records, condemns personal attacks on opposition figures
The Peter Obi Media Office (POMR) has challenged Vice-President Kashim Shettima to focus on governance records and policy differences rather than personal attacks, following his reported description of Peter Obi as “diminished.”
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, the media office accused Shettima of applying different standards in his treatment of opposition leaders, arguing that political disagreements should not justify disparaging remarks.
POMR was reacting to comments attributed to the Vice-President in which he reportedly urged Northerners to respect former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar while describing Obi as diminished.
The media office questioned why Shettima would advocate respect for one opposition figure while using language it considered dismissive of another.
It maintained that public office holders should promote political engagement based on ideas, records and policy proposals rather than personal characterisations.
POMR said Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), had consistently advocated issue-based politics and avoided abusive language in his engagements with political opponents.
The statement also challenged Shettima to compare their records in office, noting that both men had served as state governors during the same period.
According to the media office, Obi’s administration in Anambra State recorded achievements in fiscal management, education and healthcare, which it said earned him recognition and awards.
“If Shettima contests any aspect of Obi’s record, he should present the facts rather than resort to political name-calling,” the statement said.
The media office also criticised some South-East political leaders whom it accused of showing disrespect towards Obi, urging them to reconsider their approach to political disagreements.
It called on Igbo leaders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other Nigerians not to allow party affiliation to determine whether they speak out against what it described as disrespectful treatment of fellow citizens.
POMR insisted that political leaders should be judged by their records in office, the quality of their ideas and the policies they propose to address Nigeria’s challenges.
“The Nigerian people, rather than Shettima’s rhetoric, will determine Peter Obi’s political relevance,” the statement added.
The media office’s response adds to the political exchanges involving leading figures ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the debate highlighting competing views on political rhetoric, public accountability and the treatment of opposition figures.