Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, expressed his dismay over “fake” reports attributed to him.
Taking to his official Twitter handle on Saturday, Obi revealed his discovery of interviews that he had never granted to any platform, including one claiming he had aspirations for a 2027 run for office.
The former governor of Anambra State highlighted the concerning state of Nigeria’s political landscape, where the manipulation of the media space has become a pervasive practice.
Obi voiced his disappointment at the deliberate misrepresentation of his views, emphasizing that the dissemination of accurate information is vital for a healthy democracy.
He said, “I have noticed with dismay, an emerging pattern where fake media reports and news items are predicated on interviews and press remarks I never granted.
“Two recent instances relate to my saying that I am looking forward to running for office in 2027 on a supposed Arise TV interview that never took place. The other is about my reaction to prospective appointees into the federal government. Both reports are bogus.
“Regrettably, our politics have sunken to this abysmal level where manipulation of the media space is now a trade. For me, I shall continue to speak on topical national issues via recognised news and media outfits. But I certainly will not concern myself with cheap distractive trolls.”
Maintaining his commitment to engaging with national issues, Obi affirmed that he will continue to share his perspectives through reputable news and media organizations. By doing so, he aims to contribute constructively to public discourse while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of his statements.
“My focus and that of the Obidient Movement will not derail from the original mission of creating a new Nigeria which we believe is Possible,” Obi added.
“Our emphasis has never been on political positions or personal aggrandizement, but on putting the nation on the right footing and deepening our democracy by helping to elevate and empower the downtrodden in our society. That was why our messages during the electioneering campaigns were all issue-driven.”
