Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Party presidential candidate, has accused officials of the Nigeria Football Federation of preventing him from greeting members of Nigeria's Under-17 women's football team at an airport. Obi alleged that the officials feared losing their jobs if they allowed him to approach the players. The incident occurred when Obi arrived at the airport at 7 a.m. to board a flight to Enugu and encountered the Under-17 girls' team, which had just arrived and was preparing to leave.
According to Obi, he asked his Protocol Officer, Jackie Wayas, to find out whether he could greet and welcome the players. However, he was informed that NFF officials had declined his request, citing the fear of losing their jobs as the reason. Obi described the incident as another manifestation of Nigeria's growing toxic political culture, which he believes has undermined national unity and mutual respect. This incident is not the first time Obi has experienced such treatment.
Obi recalled a similar occurrence on March 25, 2025, when he attended Nigeria's World Cup qualifying match in Uyo. Although the Akwa Ibom State governor warmly received him at the VIP stand, he was subsequently prevented from greeting the players after the match. Officials again cited the fear of losing their jobs as the reason for keeping him away from the team. Obi expressed concern over the deterioration of Nigeria's political environment since 2025.
The former Anambra State governor believes that the country is witnessing an increasingly hostile atmosphere in which political affiliation has become a basis for exclusion and intimidation. Obi stated that it is deeply troubling to witness the extent of toxic politics into which Nigeria has descended since 2025. He emphasized that each year appears to bring further deterioration, reflecting how deeply Nigeria has been affected.
Obi argued that the country Nigeria should aspire to build must accommodate people across political divides. He insisted that national unity and shared humanity should take precedence over partisan interests. The new Nigeria, he said, must have no room for hostility, intimidation, or discrimination, regardless of political affiliation.
The former governor concluded by reiterating his optimism about the country's future, declaring that "a new Nigeria is possible." Obi's statement reflects his concerns about the current state of Nigeria's politics and his vision for a more united and inclusive country. His comments come amid growing concerns about the impact of politics on national unity and development.
The incident has sparked reactions from various quarters, with many calling for an end to the toxic politics that has plagued the country. Obi's allegations have also raised questions about the relationship between politics and sports in Nigeria. As the country looks to the future, Obi's comments serve as a reminder of the need for national unity and a more inclusive political culture.
Key points
- Peter Obi alleges NFF officials barred him from greeting Falconets over fear of losing jobs
- Obi describes the incident as another manifestation of Nigeria's growing toxic political culture
- Obi reiterates his optimism about the country's future, declaring that "a new Nigeria is possible"
