ABUJA – In the fast-moving world of Nigerian politics, sometimes what a leader doesn’t say is more important than a thousand-word press release.
As the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) moves against two of the most powerful figures from the previous administration—former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Attorney General Abubakar Malami—one voice has been curiously missing from the conversation: Peter Obi.
Atiku Speaks, Obi Stays Silent
While the 2027 political engine is already revving, the reactions from the top opposition leaders couldn’t be more different.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has wasted no time in jumping to the defense of his fellow northern politicians. Atiku recently visited El-Rufai, describing the attempted arrest of the former governor at an airport as a “national embarrassment” and a sign of a growing dictatorship.
But Peter Obi, usually quick to tweet or issue a statement on matters of “national importance” and “injustice,” has remained completely silent on the El-Rufai and Malami sagas.
Selective Activism or Strategic Move?
Political analysts are already dissecting this “loud silence.” Critics point out that Obi was very vocal when it came to the detention and conviction of Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that the IPOB leader should be freed despite the grave charges against him.
Why, then, is he silent now?
- The Anti-Corruption Brand: Obi recently declared his 2027 run under the ADC, promising to clean up Nigeria’s finances. Defending El-Rufai (who faces a N432bn probe in Kaduna) or Malami (whose tenure as AGF was plagued by controversy) might look bad for a man running on a “clean hands” platform.
- Old Grudges: Some haven’t forgotten the 2023 campaign trail, where El-Rufai famously claimed Obi had him “detained for 48 hours” in an Anambra hotel years ago—a claim Obi’s camp dismissed as a fabrication.
- The Southern Alliance: Various southern political groups have reportedly warned Obi to stay away from El-Rufai, fearing that an alliance with the former governor could alienate his core “Obidient” base in the south.
The “Bedroom” Election vs. The “Jailhouse” Reality
Just days ago, Obi told a crowd in Uyo that he would contest the 2027 election “even if it is held in their bedroom.”
However, as the EFCC and ICPC turn up the heat on big-name politicians, Obi seems to be choosing his battles carefully. By staying silent on El-Rufai and Malami, he avoids being dragged into a “solidarity” fight that could stain his reputation for transparency.
As one political commentator noted, “In Nigeria, silence is a strategy. Obi is letting the others fight in the mud while he tries to stay on the high ground.”
How do you feel about Obi’s silence? Should he speak up for “rule of law” even for his rivals, or is he right to stay out of the EFCC’s way?
