An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in the North has stirred controversy with a provocative statement rejecting the presidential ambition of Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi, on religious and cultural grounds.
Speaking at a political gathering in Kano on Tuesday, the APC stalwart, Alhaji Musa Ibrahim Dandume, claimed that Obi’s leadership would clash with the moral and religious values of northern communities, alleging that the former Anambra governor would “flood the North with alcohol” if elected.
“We cannot vote for someone who will bring in policies that go against our values. Peter Obi has no respect for our culture. He will import alcohol into the North and destroy the moral fabric of our society,” Dandume said, without offering evidence to back the claim.
The remarks have drawn criticism from civil society groups and political observers who described the comment as inflammatory and divisive. Many pointed out that the statement was based on speculation and intended to stoke religious sentiment ahead of future elections.
Supporters of Peter Obi dismissed the accusation as baseless and a desperate attempt to smear his reputation. A spokesperson for the Labour Party, Barr. Ifeanyi Nwoke, called on the APC to focus on issue-based campaigns rather than “spreading fear and religious bias.”
“Peter Obi has never made alcohol policy a campaign priority. His focus has always been on good governance, security, and economic reform. This is pure political mischief”.
Analysts say the statement reflects growing political tension in the build-up to the next general elections and highlights the deepening use of cultural and religious narratives to influence northern voters.
While Obi continues to enjoy support among youths and reform-minded citizens across the country, his opponents appear to be banking on regional sentiments to weaken his chances in the conservative North.
The Labour Party has yet to issue an official response, but party insiders say such attacks won’t derail their campaign message of unity, accountability, and national development.
