The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a response to comments made by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike regarding the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Wike criticized Obi for not standing during the rendition of the national anthem at an NDC rally in Lagos, suggesting such actions raised concerns about Obi’s commitment to national unity and his qualifications for the presidency.
During a town hall meeting in Rivers State, organized to support President Tinubu’s re-election campaign, Wike expressed his disapproval of Obi’s gesture. He stated that any presidential candidate who disregards national symbols like the anthem cannot be trusted to lead the country. Wike emphasized that Obi’s actions showed a disregard for Nigeria, implying that they signaled a potential divisiveness that could arise if rendered the presidency.
In a brief reply issued on Saturday, NDC spokesperson Dr. Chiogo Ikokwu rebuffed Wike’s concerns, highlighting that the minister lacked the moral authority to judge others within the political sphere. Ikokwu remarked on Wike’s history of political contention in Rivers State, arguing that his own actions contradict his criticisms. “You cannot be an arsonist in your own backyard and turn up elsewhere preaching fire safety,” he added.
Furthermore, the NDC clarified that Obi’s choice to stand or sit during the anthem was spontaneous and not orchestrated, stating that the incident arose from the crowd’s initiative. They also pointed out that the current national anthem was later sung at the rally.
The NDC urged for a focus on pressing national issues, criticizing Wike for distracting attention from the government’s shortcomings. They called for a discourse centered on the economy and the difficulties faced by citizens under the current administration.
