The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (Nigerians in Diaspora Commission), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has criticised supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, popularly known as “Obidients,” describing them as extremists whose conduct could negatively affect his political future.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Dabiri-Erewa alleged that the behaviour of Obi’s supporters could become a liability ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the former presidential candidate must take steps to control them.
According to her, the actions of the supporters could ultimately backfire politically.
“Peter Obi has actually raised monsters… they will eventually be his downfall if he does not call them to order,” she wrote, while also expressing confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would win the 2027 elections.
She further argued that political leaders should take responsibility for the conduct of their followers, insisting that unchecked online behaviour could damage political reputations.
Responding to critics who challenged her comments, Dabiri-Erewa maintained that she has the right to express her views on her personal social media account, despite holding public office.
She dismissed calls for restraint, stating that her posts were made in a personal capacity and not in her official role.
Her comments came after backlash from Obi supporters following her earlier post about a meeting with Nigerian professionals in Silicon Valley, United States, where she highlighted engagements with diaspora innovators and her experience riding in a driverless car.
