Pat Utomi Reacts as Peter Obi’s Supporters Boo APC at Abuja Market in Viral Video
Political economist and public commentator, Professor Pat Utomi, has reacted to a viral video showing traders at Banex Plaza in Wuse 2, Abuja, chanting in support of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during a confrontation involving members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The incident has generated political discussions across Nigeria, with supporters of different political parties offering contrasting interpretations of the traders’ reactions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Traders Chant in Support of Peter Obi
The incident reportedly occurred when APC campaign promoters visited Banex Plaza, a popular electronics market in Abuja, to display campaign materials featuring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
However, the campaign activity attracted resistance from some traders and individuals in the market. In a video that subsequently circulated on social media, some of the traders were heard chanting, “Na Peter Obi we want,” expressing their preference for the former Anambra State governor.
The development quickly attracted public attention, particularly because of the growing political activities and discussions surrounding the 2027 presidential election.
While some observers interpreted the incident as a sign of dissatisfaction with the ruling APC, others cautioned against using the reactions of a group of traders to determine the political preferences of Nigerians as a whole.
Pat Utomi Praises Obi’s Supporters
Reacting to the viral footage, Utomi praised the enthusiasm displayed by supporters of Peter Obi, popularly known as the Obidients.
The professor described Obi’s supporters as people who could not easily be intimidated, highlighting the determination and energy they demonstrated during the incident.
In his reaction, Utomi stated:
“One of the beautiful things about Peter Obi is that his supporters are not the kind of people you can intimidate.
“The energy in this video is extraordinary. Nigeria will definitely be OK in 2027.”
His comments reflected his confidence in the enthusiasm of Obi’s support base and his optimism about Nigeria’s political future.
Utomi’s reaction has further drawn attention to the role of grassroots political engagement, public opinion and voter mobilisation in shaping the country’s political landscape.
2027 Elections and the Growing Political Debate
The incident at Banex Plaza comes as political conversations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties and their supporters seeking to consolidate their influence across different parts of the country.
Peter Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, attracted considerable support, particularly among young Nigerians and voters seeking alternatives to the established political parties.
His supporters have continued to advocate political participation, accountability, economic reforms and improved governance.
Meanwhile, the APC, led nationally by President Bola Tinubu, faces the challenge of defending its record in government and convincing Nigerians of its plans for the country’s future.
The reactions at the Abuja market have consequently become part of the broader debate about political acceptance, campaign strategies and the relationship between political parties and ordinary citizens.
Mixed Reactions to the Market Incident
The video has prompted differing opinions about the conduct of political campaigns in commercial spaces and the extent to which traders should be expected to accommodate campaign activities.
Some Nigerians have viewed the chanting in support of Obi as an expression of political preference, arguing that citizens should be free to communicate their choices without intimidation.
Others have emphasised that political parties and their supporters should respect the rights of traders and business owners, including their ability to decide whether campaign materials should be displayed on their premises.
The incident also highlights the importance of peaceful political engagement, especially as political activities increase ahead of the next general election.
However, reactions at a single market cannot independently establish the overall popularity of a political party or candidate nationwide. Broader electoral support can only be assessed through more comprehensive evidence, including credible opinion research and, ultimately, election results.
Political Significance Ahead of 2027
Utomi’s reaction has added another dimension to the discussion surrounding Peter Obi’s political movement and the prospects for the 2027 presidential election.
His comments suggest that the enthusiasm of Obi’s supporters remains an important factor in the political conversation, particularly regarding voter mobilisation and the demand for political change.
Nevertheless, the extent to which such enthusiasm will translate into electoral success will depend on several factors, including party organisation, candidate selection, coalition-building, campaign strategies and the ability to mobilise voters across Nigeria’s diverse political constituencies.
As the 2027 elections approach, incidents such as the one at Banex Plaza are likely to remain subjects of political debate, reflecting the competing interests, expectations and aspirations shaping Nigeria’s democratic process.
For now, Utomi’s response has brought renewed attention to the determination of Obi’s supporters and the continuing contest for political influence ahead of the next presidential election.