Introduction: Ahmad Criticizes Peter Obi’s Supporters After Daura Meeting
A political drama stirred in Daura, Katsina State, as Bashir Ahmad, former social media aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, publicly condemned the intolerance and bullying culture among supporters of Peter Obi, the former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate.
The controversial confrontation followed their recent meeting where Ahmad criticizes Peter Obi’s supporters at Buhari’s residence.
A Respectful Condolence Visit That Sparked Outrage
Peter Obi visited Daura on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, to pay condolences to Buhari’s family.
The visit came just a day after Buhari’s burial, which was marked by Islamic rites and full military honours.
Bashir Ahmad shared images of himself with Obi on his social media, thanking Obi for his kind gesture.
His post read: “We sincerely appreciate Mr. @PeterObi for finding time to visit Daura to condole with the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari.”
“He also extended his heartfelt condolences to us. We wish him a safe journey back home.”
However, instead of gratitude, Ahmad received a barrage of harsh criticism not from his own party but surprisingly from Obi’s loyalists.
Accusations of hypocrisy and betrayal flooded his X timeline.
Bashir Ahmad’s Scathing Response: ‘Obidients’ Under Fire
Bashir Ahmad later released a detailed statement, entitled ‘My meeting with Peter Obi in Daura’, aiming to clarify the incident and address the backlash.
He said the hostile reaction from Obi’s followers whom he dubbed “experts in bullying, gatekeeping, and intolerance” was both predictable and damaging.
Ahmad revealed that at the prayer session, dignitaries including Mallam Mamman Daura, Atiku Abubakar, Nasir el-Rufai, and Peter Obi sat together, exchanging condolences civilly and respectfully.
The conversation was brief, non-political, and centered on mutual respect for the late president.
He explained that the photos were taken casually as a symbol of condolence; it was Obi’s visit to them, not the other way around.
No political agendas or campaign strategies influenced the encounter.
The Hypocrisy of Obi’s Supporters Explored
Ironically, the fiercest critics of Ahmad’s post are some of Peter Obi’s own supporters.
Ahmad condemned them fiercely, saying:
“His supporters are simply not enough on their own to make him President and worse still, they attack, block and harass those who might otherwise be willing to help him do so.”
This accusation highlights a toxic faction known for shutting down dialogue through intimidation.
Rather than broadening their coalition, these “Obidients” police loyalty with an iron fist a behavior that Ahmad suggests will obstruct Obi’s ambitions.
Political Intolerance Threatens Nigeria’s Democracy
The episode exemplifies a growing intolerance in Nigerian politics, especially on social media, where factionalism turns personal.
The stifling of reasonable discourse for fear of opposing camp backlash dangerously fragments potential alliances.
Bashir Ahmad’s experience typifies a sad reality: respectful cross-party engagements are often punished by hardened extremist factions who mistake opposition for enmity.
This culture may alienate moderates willing to bridge the political divide.
Ahmad recounted his interaction with Obi during the memorial gathering.
He first greeted several senior figures, including Atiku Abubakar and Nasir el-Rufai, before reaching Obi seated nearby.
Obi reportedly recognized a tweet Ahmad had posted recently.
Later, at the departure, Obi lightheartedly invited Ahmad to support him politically and remarked on agricultural opportunities near Daura, showcasing unexpected warmth and openness.
Such moments of civility contrast sharply with the outrage that followed online.
The Larger Implication for 2027 Elections
This incident exposes deeper challenges facing Peter Obi and his Labour Party as they prepare for the 2027 presidential election.
While Obi projects an image of progress and unity, Ahmad’s remarks suggest his base suffers from factional gatekeeping that may ultimately isolate potential allies.
At a time when Nigerian politics badly needs broad coalitions to address complex national crises, party supporters employing bullying tactics undermine electoral chances and national unity alike.
Buhari’s Legacy and Political Sensitivities
The backdrop of Buhari’s passing only intensifies sensitivities.
Obi’s visit was a rare gesture transcending the bitter politics of recent years.
Yet, the hostile reception to bashir Ahmad’s transparency reveals bitter polarizations lingering beneath the surface.
For Buhari loyalists, respect for the former president’s legacy remains paramount.
The hostility displayed by some opposition elements reveals how fragile political civility remains in contemporary Nigeria.
What Bashir Ahmad’s Story Teaches About Political Maturity
Nigerian politics demands less bullying, clearer respect, and genuine dialogue conditions sorely lacking today.
Ahmed’s experience at Daura illustrates the need for leaders and followers alike to rethink their tactics.
Shutting out dialogue in the name of loyalty only fuels division.
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