The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has fired back at Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, over his recent comments regarding the Senate’s stance on the electronic transmission of election results. The party described Obi’s claims as not only false but a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
In a statement released on Saturday, APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo clarified that the Senate never rejected the electronic transmission of results. Instead, he argued that the legislative body acted with high responsibility by refining the legal framework to ensure that any technology used is secure and matches the actual technical capabilities of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Oladejo noted that misinterpreting this careful legislative process as a “rejection” suggests either a lack of understanding of how laws are made or a move to score cheap political points.
The APC pointed to recent statements by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe. Both lawmakers reaffirmed that the Senate supports using technology for elections, provided it aligns with the Electoral Act and INEC’s operational readiness. Oladejo criticized Obi for “hastily amplifying” a narrative that has already been debunked by those involved in the process.
The party didn’t hold back in its critique of the former Anambra State governor’s leadership style. Oladejo claimed that this episode highlights a recurring pattern where Obi rushes to social media with sensational commentary before verifying the facts. He described this habit as “unpresidential” and “statesman-like,” suggesting that such behavior undermines public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions and fuels unnecessary division.
The statement further accused Obi of consistently painting Nigeria in a negative light, especially on the international stage. The APC spokesperson argued that while criticism is part of democracy, doing so without balance or context can damage national morale and scare off potential investors. He also noted a disconnect between Obi’s current rhetoric and the policies he oversaw during his own time in public office.
The Lagos APC maintained that the country needs leadership defined by diligence and emotional intelligence rather than social media populism. Oladejo concluded by stating that democracy is built on truth and accuracy, not on a “compulsive urge” to disparage the country. For the APC, the facts are clear, and in their view, Peter Obi simply got it wrong again.
