By Idris Zekeri Jnr
We have been inundated with calls and enquiries about the renewed and ongoing campaign of calumny by Deji Adeyanju against Mr. Peter Obi and his millions of supporters and admirers.
While it is within the right of any citizen to criticise any political leader, or indeed any person of public interest, it has become increasingly concerning to observe the language, vitriol and general acerbity of Mr. Adeyanju’s infantile public outbursts.
Perhaps the most ridiculous of his recent claims is that he is “bigger” than Peter Obi.
As a matter of principle, we do not ordinarily respond to hirelings of the Tinubu administration who hide under the cloak of non-partisanship. We usually prefer that such individuals properly identify themselves so they can be treated accordingly.
But in Deji’s case, it is necessary to point out the absurdity of the comparison he has attempted to construct.
A fellow who obtained his first university degree in 2022, when he was already in his mid-40s, can hardly, by any reasonable measure, place himself in the same category as a man who had, by that age, already built and led businesses, served in the banking sector and governed an entire state.
The difference is not merely significant; it is the difference between comparing a shrimp with a whale.
More importantly, Mr. Adeyanju appears to have chosen an unusual premise for his self-assessment. His basis for comparison seems to include his much-publicised flirtation with being in and out of detention.
While that may count for something in his personal estimation, let us state this unequivocally: criminal prosecution for murder, subsequent remand and a discharge and acquittal are not badges of honour.
They are certainly not credentials for political stature, moral authority or leadership.
If anything, they should provide an opportunity for serious self-assessment and introspection.
It offers Mr. Adeyanju a second opportunity, if he likes, a second chance, to take a deep and honest look at himself, stay out of trouble, truly turn a new page and become a model citizen and an advocate for a crime-free society.
That same opportunity also exists for him to reconsider the kind of politics he is promoting.
Nigeria does not need more political theatrics, bitterness or endless personal attacks. It needs good governance, competent leadership, compassion, integrity and the capacity to deliver measurable improvements in the lives of its people.
These are precisely the qualities that Mr. Peter Obi represents to millions of Nigerians today.
Mr. Adeyanju is entitled to his opinions. He is entitled to criticise Peter Obi. He is even entitled to believe that he is “bigger” than Peter Obi.
But Nigerians are equally entitled to ask: bigger in what?
Leadership? Experience? Governance? Enterprise? Public service? Measurable impact?
On those questions, Nigerians can make their own judgement.
We will not be distracted by individuals whose principal contribution to public discourse appears to be an endless appetite for personal attacks. We will continue to defend the truth, challenge misinformation and remind Nigerians that political relevance is not manufactured by noise, detention records or social-media theatrics.
It is earned through competence, character, service and impact.
Idris Zekeri Jnr writes from Abraka, Delta State.
