…Says Peter Obi Would Have Been Called Biafra Agitator
Former Nigerian senator Shehu Sani has stirred fresh controversy over political bias and regional sentiments following reports that a United States consultancy firm was engaged to pressure the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with possible sanctions.
Reacting via social media, Sani argued that Nigerians often interpret similar political actions differently depending on who is involved. He noted that if such a move had been associated with former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, it would likely have triggered a wave of criticism framed along ethnic lines, with opponents branding it a “Biafra agenda.”
Sani also referenced past controversies to support his position, including the backlash faced by Pastor Dachomo, who reportedly took concerns about insecurity in Northern Nigeria to the United States Congress.
At the time, critics accused him of externalising Nigeria’s internal challenges.
His comments have revived attention on earlier disclosures that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar engaged a U.S.-based lobbying firm following the 2023 presidential election.
The move was aimed at shaping international opinion and projecting his stance on the electoral process. While Atiku’s engagement drew criticism in some quarters, it did not generate the same level of ethnically charged reactions that Sani suggests would have accompanied a similar effort by Obi.
By drawing these comparisons, Sani has reignited a broader national conversation about how ethnicity, political allegiance, and media framing influence public perception in Nigeria.
The debate continues to trend online, with many questioning whether the country applies consistent standards when evaluating the actions of its political figures.
