Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant on Public Communications to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, responded to remarks made by Bayo Onanuga, the spokesman for President Bola Tinubu, concerning Peter Obi’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Onanuga had claimed that Obi’s statements during the defection revealed bitterness over finishing third in the 2023 presidential election and predicted that Obi would eventually become Atiku’s running mate in the ADC. Shaibu dismissed the running‑mate speculation as “pure fiction” and suggested that Onanuga’s reaction reflected panic within the government rather than a thoughtful analysis of Obi’s move.
Shaibu also called Onanuga’s criticism of Obi as “wandering” hypocritical, pointing out the long history of political migrations and elite bargains within the current administration. He highlighted that many Nigerians continue to question the legitimacy of the 2023 election, noting that millions have voiced concerns and that labeling these grievances as mere bitterness is not a credible response.
The exchange also touched on broader issues in Nigerian politics. Shaibu argued that the present administration’s policies have contributed to widespread hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship, and that propaganda or spin cannot alter the lived reality of Nigerians. He criticized the government’s communication strategy for relying on insults and name‑calling instead of addressing substantive criticism.
As the 2027 election approaches, the dialogue between Shaibu and Onanuga may foreshadow the upcoming campaign. Shaibu’s comments suggest that the opposition is organizing and mobilizing, potentially posing a challenge to the current administration. Ultimately, the outcome of the 2027 election will depend on the choices of Nigerian voters, not on the efforts of media advisers or propaganda campaigns.
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