The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has responded to the debate challenge issued by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, saying the minister must first become a presidential candidate before such an engagement can take place.
Obi made the statement during an interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, while reacting to calls for him to accept Umahi’s challenge followi
ng his criticism of the state of Nigeria’s roads.
The former Anambra State governor said his concerns about poor road conditions had already produced results, noting that some roads he criticised were subsequently repaired.
According to Obi, presidential debates are meant for candidates who have secured presidential tickets and are contesting elections, not individuals who are yet to emerge as candidates.
“If he is inviting me to a debate as a presidential candidate, then he has to become a presidential candidate first,” Obi said.
Using a football analogy, Obi explained that a team that has qualified for the FIFA World Cup cannot be invited to compete by a team that failed to qualify simply because it believes it is capable.
“The World Cup is going on now. You cannot stay outside and invite a team that qualified for the World Cup to come and play against you simply because you think you are good. There is a qualification process,” he added.
Obi’s comments came days after Umahi described him as not being a major political threat to President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The exchange between both politicians has continued to attract reactions as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.