Dr. Sam Amadi, former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts, has raised concerns over what he describes as an “unjustified campaign of criticism” against Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election.

 

In a recent post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Amadi lamented the continued attacks on Obi by top government officials and political figures, arguing that these efforts appear more focused on discrediting the former Anambra governor than engaging with the pressing national issues he routinely highlights.

 

According to Vanguard, Amadi expressed dismay that rather than responding to Obi’s calls for reforms and economic restructuring with informed debate or counter-policy proposals, political leaders have opted for personal attacks.

 

He pointed to a number of recent incidents, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s strong reaction to Obi’s comment that “the labour of our heroes past has gone in vain.” Akpabio accused Obi of dishonoring Nigeria’s founding fathers. Similarly, the Lagos State Governor condemned Obi’s remarks made at an international event where he criticized Nigeria’s current economic direction. The Presidency has also previously dismissed Obi’s reform proposals without addressing their substance.

 

Amadi emphasized that despite the barrage of criticism, Obi has refused to descend into political mudslinging, choosing instead to remain focused on Nigeria’s worsening socio-economic conditions. He noted that this approach sets Obi apart from many others in the political space, particularly in a climate often dominated by personality clashes rather than issue-based discourse.

 

“If elections in Nigeria were based purely on rational judgment and performance,” Amadi wrote, “Obi would be the clear choice for leadership, given his emphasis on reform, fiscal discipline, and economic transformation.”

 

Amadi criticized the political establishment for expending so much effort vilifying Obi instead of tackling the country’s urgent problems, such as rising inflation, unemployment, and institutional corruption. He commended Obi’s policy-driven approach and reiterated the need for a more constructive national conversation centered on governance and accountability.

 

The post has since gained widespread traction online, with many Nigerians resonating with Amadi’s message. Supporters of Obi have applauded his restraint and focus, calling on government officials to redirect their energies toward solving the nation’s challenges instead of stifling opposition voices.

 

Amadi’s remarks come as a sharp critique of Nigeria’s prevailing political atmosphere, where issue-based engagement is often sidelined in favor of partisan hostility. He concluded by urging a shift in political culture.