The Peter Obi Media Office has faulted Vice President Kashim Shettima over his description of New Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi as “diminished,” urging political leaders to prioritise policy debates over personal attacks.
In a statement signed by spokesman Idris Zekeri Jnr, the media office said the comment fell short of the standards expected of national leaders, particularly as political parties prepare for the 2027 general election.
The office questioned what it described as an inconsistency in Shettima’s approach to opposition figures, noting that while the Vice President had recently urged Northerners to respect former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, he appeared less charitable toward Obi.
“Although Shettima has the right to oppose Obi, it is difficult to understand why he would demand respect for one opposition leader while casually dismissing another,” the statement said.
According to the media office, political differences should not prevent public office holders from recognising the contributions and standing of their opponents.
“As a man of great decency, our candidate has conducted his campaign professionally and decorously. He has consistently focused his remarks on issues and has neither discussed nor used abusive language against anyone,” it stated.
The statement also drew comparisons between Obi’s tenure as governor of Anambra State and Shettima’s administration in Borno State, arguing that Obi’s record in key governance sectors was superior.
It specifically highlighted Obi’s fiscal management policies and investments in education and healthcare as major accomplishments.
However, the media office did not provide detailed comparative statistics to support its assessment of the two former governors’ performances.
