The Peter Obi Media Office has condemned an alleged AI-generated image purportedly depicting Peter Obi, Cardinal John Onaiyekan and Enugu State NDC governorship candidate, Sir Chinyeaka Oha, seeking Pope Leo XIV’s blessing for electoral victory, describing it as misleading and an attempt to drag the Catholic Church into partisan politics.
In a statement issued on October 22, POMR spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, urged political opponents to keep the Pope and the Catholic Church out of electoral campaigns, insisting that sacred religious institutions must not be exploited for political advantage.
The office said the disputed image was deceptive and unwarranted, calling on political actors to focus on substantive issues rather than manufactured religious controversies.
According to the statement, Obi expressed disappointment over the incident and challenged political opponents to debate their records, policies, competence, character and vision for Nigeria.
He said the 2027 election should focus on tackling poverty, insecurity, corruption and economic hardship while expanding opportunities for young people.
“The 2027 election must focus on Nigeria’s future, not fabricated religious controversies,” the statement quoted Obi as saying.
The media office stressed that the Catholic Church should be allowed to discharge its spiritual responsibilities without being drawn into partisan disputes.
It reaffirmed Obi’s stated commitment to building a country where every Nigerian can live with dignity and hope, concluding with his campaign slogan: “A New Nigeria Is Possible.”