During the inaugural Idoma Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Abuja—hosted alongside the Ochetoha K’Idoma as part of the Idoma Centenary Plus celebrations—Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike cast doubt on the sincerity of opposition figures engaging with vulnerable communities.

Specifically targeting Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi, Wike challenged the widespread perception of the former Anambra governor as uniquely humble. He pointed to Obi’s pattern of visiting internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, such as his decision to mark his 62nd birthday at an IDP facility in Plateau State in 2023, as well as a recent trip to the Ramin Kura IDP camp in Sokoto State.

Wike argued that such public gestures are carefully calculated political theater rather than genuine compassion. He cautioned the electorate against being misled by politicians who suddenly adopt modest habits—such as purchasing roadside snacks or staging high-profile visits—solely to curry favor during election cycles. Furthermore, the FCT minister urged citizens to evaluate the current administration's ongoing efforts to tackle severe economic and security hurdles against the conditions inherited prior to taking office, dismissing opportunistic critics as political gamblers.

Kwankwaso Defends Obi Against Economic Criticisms

In a parallel development, NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso stepped forward to defend Obi following recent remarks by Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

During the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, Vice-President Shettima launched a scathing critique of Obi, labeling him a purveyor of flawed economic models and unreliable data. Mocking Obi's frequent cross-national comparisons, Shettima likened his policy proposals to trying to fit an ill-sized garment onto the country.

Appearing on Channels Television, Kwankwaso dismissed the vice-president's critique as predictable partisan rhetoric. He affirmed that Obi's data and economic evaluations are thoroughly researched and largely accurate, noting that minor verbal slips are normal for any human being. Kwankwaso further praised Obi's deep grasp of global and domestic development metrics, framing his extensive knowledge as a major asset for effective national leadership.