Peter Ameh, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), has made a significant claim. He alleged that the Bola Tinubu-led administration is increasingly worried about Peter Obi’s growing political clout. Obi is the presidential candidate for the Labour Party. This concern arises specifically regarding the upcoming 2027 general elections.

Ameh shared this claim during an interview. He spoke with Seun Okinbaloye on The Micon Podcast. Ameh stated the federal government is allegedly taking deliberate steps. Their aim is to prevent Obi from appearing on the ballot.

He further explained the government’s focus on Obi. It stems from findings gathered through “data collection and behind-closed-doors engagements.” These engagements indicate Obi remains the most formidable challenger. He is the candidate from the Labour Party.

Ameh also accused presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga. He claims Onanuga repeatedly targets Obi in his social media commentary. This, Ameh suggested, forms part of a broader strategy. The goal is to diminish the former Anambra governor’s influence.

Ameh’s Allegations and Evidence

Ameh emphasized that their political assessments are not mere speculation. He stated, “We also collect data and do a lot of engagement.” He added, “These are the things we do behind closed doors.” Ameh asserted their findings are clear. “The only person this government does not want on the ballot is Peter Obi,” he claimed. “They are doing everything.”

He challenged listeners to observe Bayo Onanuga’s social media activity. “Go and count how many times Bayo Onanuga has posted about Peter Obi on his Twitter page,” Ameh urged. He concluded, “He’s worried about Peter Obi. They’re worried. They don’t talk about anything without talking about Peter Obi.”

Ameh further claimed that President Tinubu does not fear Atiku Abubakar or Rotimi Amaechi. “It’s on record; they know it,” he stated. “There’s a high level of fear,” but it’s directed at Obi.

He recalled Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. The PDP then made every effort to defeat Bola Tinubu in Lagos. Despite this, “they couldn’t.” He added, “They did everything. They brought federal might. They could not.”

In contrast, Ameh highlighted Peter Obi’s past electoral performance. “It took Mr Peter Obi to garner about 1 million votes,” he said. He noted these votes were “reduced to 500,000 votes.” Furthermore, “It took a Peter Obi to come to FCT,” the seat of power, “to defeat the APC.”