A prominent Nigerian comedian and former reality TV star has publicly urged former presidential candidate Peter Obi to adopt a more financially robust campaign strategy ahead of the 2027 elections, citing the recent emergence of a rival political group as a critical challenge.
DeeOne, known from Big Brother Naija, made the remarks in a widely shared Instagram video on Saturday. His commentary was triggered by the launch of the “City Boy Movement,” a support group for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, spearheaded by the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu. Significantly, the group has recruited several former coordinators and directors from Mr. Obi’s 2023 Labour Party campaign, particularly in Nigeria’s South-East region.
In his video, DeeOne argued that Mr. Obi’s popular campaign slogan, “We no dey give shishi” (We do not spend money), is a strategic liability for future contests. He contended that while the message of frugality resonated in the 2023 election, a presidential race requires substantial financial deployment.
“Presidential election no be cho cho cho,” DeeOne stated, advising that winning demands tangible “workings.” He provided stark anecdotes from the last election cycle, claiming that Labour Party agents at polling units lacked basic necessities like water and food, necessitating support from rival parties. He contrasted this with the U.S. presidential race, noting former President Donald Trump spent $66 million of his personal funds, to underscore the scale of expenditure expected.
The comedian did not advocate unchecked spending but insisted on transparency and structural change. He suggested that if Mr. Obi lacks personal funds, he should actively solicit donations from supporters with clear accounting for expenditure. DeeOne framed his criticism as constructive, stating, “telling Mr Peter Obi the truth doesn’t mean you don’t like him. It only means that you want him to do well in the next election.”
The video highlights a growing internal debate within sections of the Obi-aligned political bloc regarding campaign methodology. The defection of key South-East organisers to the pro-Tinubu City Boy Movement amplifies concerns about organizational capacity and resource allocation. DeeOne’s intervention, coming from a celebrity with a significant youth following, adds a public layer to these strategic discussions.
Analysts note that the 2027 electoral landscape is already taking shape, with early movement-building and realignments. For the Labour Party and its Obi-aligned structures, the immediate next step involves reconciling its core message of fiscal responsibility with the practical financial demands of mounting a nationwide presidential campaign. The effectiveness of Mr. Obi’s response to such public advice from former supporters will likely influence the cohesion and readiness of his political base for the next electoral cycle.
