By Chidmma Okapa l May 9, 2026
The presidency of President Bola Tinubu has criticized the newly formed Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) linked to former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, accusing the movement of lacking a clear manifesto and structured political programmes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, reportedly questioned the credibility and preparedness of the emerging political platform, arguing that the group had failed to present any concrete policy direction to Nigerians.
According to the presidency, the NDC has yet to release any official manifesto, policy document, or governance framework despite growing political discussions surrounding Peter Obi’s role in the opposition movement. Onanuga allegedly described the platform as politically unclear and lacking ideological direction.
The criticism comes amid intensifying political realignments ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election. Peter Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso recently distanced themselves from the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition following internal disputes and disagreements over leadership and strategy.
Reuters previously reported that Obi cited “internal battles, suspicion, and division” as reasons for leaving the ADC alliance, a move many political analysts believe weakened efforts to build a united opposition against President Tinubu’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The presidency has continued to attack Obi’s political decisions in recent weeks. Onanuga previously described the former Anambra State governor as a “political nomad” and accused him of opportunism following his withdrawal from the ADC coalition.
Supporters of Obi, however, argue that the former presidential candidate remains one of Nigeria’s strongest opposition figures, especially among young voters and urban populations who rallied behind his 2023 campaign. Political observers say Obi’s next political move could significantly shape opposition politics heading into the next election cycle.
Although details surrounding the NDC’s structure and policy agenda remain limited publicly, discussions around the movement have continued to gain traction on social media and within opposition circles. Critics of the Tinubu administration argue that the presidency’s repeated focus on Obi reflects growing concern about potential opposition mobilization ahead of 2027.