The All Progressives Congress (APC) has sharply criticized Labour Party chieftain Peter Obi over his recent comments regarding the conviction of Nnamdi Kanu, describing his position as inaccurate and “misleading to the public.”
The ruling party’s reaction followed statements made by Obi during an interactive session with supporters, where he raised concerns about the legal proceedings that led to Kanu’s conviction. Obi had stressed the need for fairness, national dialogue, and a broader political approach to addressing issues surrounding the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). While he refrained from challenging the authority of the courts, he questioned whether all avenues for reconciliation had been adequately explored.
In a strongly worded response issued by APC spokespersons, the party accused Obi of misrepresenting the facts and attempting to politicize a sensitive legal matter. According to the APC, Obi’s comments risked fueling public misunderstanding and could undermine the rule of law by suggesting that political sentiment should override judicial processes.
The party argued that the court’s decision was based on established legal procedures and evidence presented before it. It insisted that no political figure should create the impression that due process was absent or compromised. APC officials emphasized that the judiciary operates independently and should not be drawn into partisan debates.
The statement further accused Obi of using Kanu’s case to score political points, especially among supporters in regions where the issue commands strong emotions. The APC maintained that national unity requires respecting judicial institutions rather than questioning their judgments for political gain.
In response to follow-up inquiries from journalists, APC representatives reiterated that the government had consistently encouraged peaceful engagement while discouraging rhetoric capable of escalating tensions. They stressed that security issues, especially those involving separatist movements, must be handled with caution, legality, and responsibility.
While the APC’s criticism has sparked reactions across various political circles, Obi has not issued a direct reply to the party’s statement. His earlier comments, however, focused on promoting dialogue, restoring trust between citizens and the state, and ensuring that long-standing grievances are addressed in a democratic manner.
Observers note that the exchange adds another layer to the ongoing national conversation about justice, security, and political responsibility, particularly as Nigeria approaches another election cycle where public sentiment and leadership credibility will shape political dynamics.