Group commends Peter Obi, says he higher chance than El-Rufai.
A team called Democracy Watch Initiative, DWI, Friday, lauded the presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi, over interaction with the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Muhammed and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ahead of the 2027 national elections.
DWI made the praise in a statement authorised by the Director, Strategic Communication, DWI, Dr AbdulRazak Ahmed, where it noted that the move by Obi is a significant journey towards political collaboration and national unity.
Part of the statement read thus: “The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) extends a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the recent advances made by Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, as he embarks on a significant journey towards political collaboration and national unity.
“His visit to Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the esteemed leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, marks a pivotal moment in Nigerian politics.
“We commend Peter Obi for his courageous decision to embrace the most powerful opposition party in the country, thereby positioning himself squarely within the mainstream political discourse.
“We applaud Governor Bala Mohammed’s commendation of Peter Obi’s dedication to nation-building and inclusive leadership. Such praise is significant, as it emphasizes the necessity for collaboration among leaders from different political backgrounds.
“It highlights a shared vision for Nigeria—one that transcends partisan divides and strives for the advancement of a prosperous and harmonious nation. Governor Mohammed’s acknowledgment of Obi’s efforts serves as a clarion call for other leaders to engage in constructive dialogue rather than adversarial politics, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can coexist and contribute to the greater good.
“In this light, we urge Peter Obi to consolidate the momentum generated by this visit. By aligning himself with the PDP and engaging in meaningful discussions with its leadership, he has the opportunity to redefine his political narrative and amplify his impact on the national stage.
“Unlike former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who appears to have lost focus and is attempting to fight from the periphery, Peter Obi has the chance to be at the forefront of a transformative political movement that prioritizes unity and progress.
“Governor Bala Mohammed’s advocacy for unity and politics without bitterness is a timely reminder of the values that should guide Nigeria’s political landscape. As our nation grapples with complex challenges, the emphasis on mutual respect, tolerance, and collective responsibility is essential for creating an environment conducive to growth and development.
“Leaders must heed this call, recognizing that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and the capacity of its people to unite for a common purpose. Only through such unity can Nigeria hope to realize its full potential and build a brighter future for all its citizens.
“The Democracy Watch Initiative celebrates Peter Obi’s strategic engagement with Governor Bala Mohammed and the Peoples Democratic Party. We look forward to seeing how this collaboration will unfold and contribute to the greater good of Nigeria. We encourage all political leaders to embrace dialogue, foster inclusivity, and work together towards the common goal of national advancement.”
Meanwhile, the group also lauded Obi’s visit to render tribute to the Emir of Bauchi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, defining it as a respectful homage, and saying “this gesture not only reflects Obi’s recognition of the vital role traditional institutions play in promoting peace and unity within our communities but also underscores his commitment to engaging with all facets of Nigerian society.
“Traditional leaders have historically been instrumental in fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse groups, and their involvement in political discussions enhances the legitimacy of efforts aimed at fostering national cohesion”, it added.
