Sule-Iko Sami: Peter Obi and His Likes Are Not Focusing On Opposition Functions

APC member, Sule-Iko Sami, says opposition is engaged in adventure, accuses Obi and allies of neglecting opposition duties.

Political strategist and member of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Sule-Iko Sami has criticized Nigeria’s opposition, describing their activities as “an adventure” rather than meaningful political engagement.

Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, Sami accused figures including Peter Obi and his allies of failing to perform the core functions of opposition politics, arguing that they focus more on power ambitions than presenting credible policy alternatives to the ruling party.

He said, “The only thing I can say is that when someone is engaged in an adventure, just the way Peter Obi and his likes are, they aren’t looking at the real function of an opposition. An opposition is supposed to provide alternative policies, challenge the government where necessary, and bring alternative views that Nigerians are yearning for.”

Defending the economic policies of President Tinubu, Sami compared the government’s reforms to opposition narratives, arguing they offer a clearer path for Nigeria’s future.

“In my opinion, when you look at the concrete policies of Asiwaju—from energy subsidy removal to foreign exchange, infrastructure, and education funding programs like ELBC—these give us a sense of a future for Nigerian youth. On the other side, the only thing people are targeting is how to destabilize our political structure. They should ask themselves: ‘What are your plans for Nigerians? Do you have a better program for the fuel subsidy or a way to strengthen the Naira better than Asiwaju is currently doing?’ If they don’t have alternatives, they’re just looking for power. I’m calling on Nigerian youth to see that this APC government is working to consolidate economic policies that, while painful initially, will pay off in the long run,” he maintained.

Responding to claims by Obi that he aims to “rescue Nigeria,” Sami questioned the credibility of that stance, citing frequent party changes and what he described as a lack of a clear agenda.

“When someone talks about ‘rescuing Nigeria’ while moving through seven different parties without a clear agenda or manifesto that attracts the youth, it raises questions,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to focus on economic growth and revenue, while challenging the opposition to present clear, issue-based alternatives instead of seeking power.

“We shouldn’t just look at news narratives; let’s look at the actual economy—how it’s growing, the stability of foreign exchange, and government revenue. Every government faces challenges, and the policies are there for everyone to read. I challenge the opposition to bring issue-by-issue alternatives instead of just seeking power,” Sami said.

Addressing concerns about internal stability, the APC member said the APC maintains harmony by resolving disputes internally rather than resorting to litigation.

“Crisis in a political party usually comes from how it’s set up. You have to ensure that all internal issues are addressed within the party rather than going to court. The APC has harmony in its structure and leadership. We follow the rules, the law, and the constitution,” he maintained.

On whether Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, Sami dismissed the claim, saying the APC is not desperate for more governors and remains open to leaders committed to progress.

“We’re not desperate. Any talk of ‘crisis’ in places like Kogi is often just contestants competing. We want every Nigerian governor interested in progress to join us. Having 30 governors doesn’t make it a one-party state; governors are individuals, and when they leave office, their successors may have different aspirations,” he explained.

Speaking on reports of violence in Kebbi State, Sami dismissed the claims, describing incidents as minor scuffles rather than organised attacks. He insisted the state has remained peaceful since 2023.

“There was no violence. Sometimes, during political movements outside of campaign season, people might have minor scuffles among themselves, but that’s not violence in the state. We have a peaceful state. My governor is a union leader, and his life is about constructive activity.

“As I said, there’s no evidence that the fight was between opponents. It was likely just supporters having an exchange during their activities. I’m against thuggery in politics. My state has been peaceful since this government took over in 2023. Our governor hasn’t intervened in the activities of other parties; he’s allowed leaders and stakeholders to engage freely,” he insisted.

On the possibility of the APC losing Kebbi State, Sami ruled it out, citing ongoing infrastructure development and broad regional support for the current administration.

“No, and for several reasons. I’m from Kebbi South, which was once disadvantaged in terms of infrastructure. Today, the governor has built infrastructure connecting my zone to the capital, something we lacked for 20 years. Kebbi South makes up about 37% of the vote that brought him to power, and he’s doing great work in Kebbi North and Kebbi Central as well. I haven’t seen any opposition with a clear alternative or organic popularity that compares.”

Addressing the party’s primary process, the APC member said direct primaries would be adopted if consensus fails, assuring that the exercise would be free and fair.

“If the consensus was not concluded, there will be direct primaries. And every card-carrying member will vote. It will be free and fair,” he assured.

He expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Nasir Idris, citing his track record as a former union leader and his reputation for transparency and consistency in governance.

“Remember, I am going to be a player. So, I can tell you if it’s not going to be free and fair; I will tell you it’s not going to be free and fair. Because I know him, I know his antecedents, I know his practices, and I know him as a union leader and what he was able to deliver. Even as a union leader, because of what he did, they gave him a national leader in NUT.”

Reaffirming his strong support for the APC, Sami said the party remains united and committed to stability, expressing confidence that recent developments and Kebbi state governor’s performance would continue to attract wider backing.