A fresh controversy has emerged in Nigeria’s political space following reports that the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, paid a private visit to former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami.
The visit, which reportedly took place on the evening of 15 September 2025, has stirred sharp reactions on social media, particularly from critics who recall past accusations linking Pantami to extremist sympathies.
One of the most vocal responses came in an open letter directed at activist Serah Ibrahim, a prominent supporter of Mr. Obi. The statement drew attention to her previous hard-line criticisms of Pantami and his associates during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In 2021, Ms. Ibrahim had publicly described individuals backing Prof. Pantami as “terrorists,” extending the accusation to the minister’s political principal at the time, President Buhari, as well as to others who defended Pantami.
The critic noted the irony of Obi’s recent engagement with Pantami, arguing that the development puts the Labour Party figure “in the same category” as those Ibrahim once condemned.
“Back in 2021, you unapologetically labelled everyone supporting Prof. Pantami a terrorist. You went further to call his boss, the late President, a terrorist and even called me one. Now, your Peter is not only supporting Pantami but also creating time to visit him at home to discuss strategies,” the statement read.
The author went further to challenge Ibrahim to clarify her stance in light of Obi’s recent actions:
“My question is simple: is your stand still valid? If yes, then please update your list and include Mr. Peter Obi, who is now among Prof. Pantami’s newest supporters.”
Political Implications
Obi’s visit to Pantami has sparked a flurry of online debates about political alliances, consistency, and the compromises often made in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. While details of the discussions between Obi and Pantami remain unclear, observers suggest that the visit may have centred on strategic consultations ahead of future political contests.
The incident has, however, reignited longstanding debates about Pantami’s controversial past, particularly resurfaced allegations that dogged his tenure as a federal minister, even though he consistently denied any extremist leanings.
Broader Reactions
Reactions on social media reflect a divided public: some argue that Obi’s outreach demonstrates inclusivity and political pragmatism, while others view it as hypocrisy given the strong positions previously taken by his supporters.
As of press time, neither Peter Obi nor Serah Ibrahim had publicly commented on the matter.
