Bashir Ahmad, the former Special Assistant to late President Muhammadu Buhari, has opened up about his encounter with Peter Obi at Buhari’s residence in Daura during a condolence visit.
According to Bashir, Peter Obi, along with other dignitaries, visited Daura to pay their respects and offer condolences following the passing of the former Nigerian leader. Bashir revealed that he took time to greet many of the high-profile guests already seated for the prayer session, including Atiku Abubakar, Mallam Mamman Daura, and Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, before finally getting to Peter Obi.
Bashir mentioned that Peter Obi recognized him and referenced a recent post of his on Twitter, which sparked a light conversation between them. He appreciated Obi’s respectful tone and the fact that the former presidential candidate acknowledged his loyalty to Buhari even after his administration had ended.
He explained that politics did not come up at the beginning of their conversation. It was only at the end of Obi’s visit—when they briefly stood together outside—that Obi jokingly suggested Bashir should support him, also noting the vast land he had seen for agriculture on the road to Daura.
Bashir further shared that upon posting photos from their interaction, he was met with online criticism—not from members of his own party—but from Obi’s supporters, known as the “Obidients.”
He expressed his disappointment with the backlash, emphasizing that the meeting was not a political engagement but a moment of mutual respect and humanity. Bashir also clarified that Obi had come to pay respect to President Buhari and that his presence should not be politicized.
He concluded his reflection by criticizing the behavior of Obi’s followers, saying their aggressive and intolerant actions were counterproductive. In his words, their divisive approach could hinder Peter Obi’s ability to form the wide-reaching coalition necessary for a successful presidential campaign.
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