Nollywood actor and filmmaker Yul Edochie has stirred fresh debate on social media after making critical remarks about Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, igniting divided reactions across Nigeria’s political space.
The actor, known for his outspoken political views and support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 elections, shared a series of posts questioning Obi’s leadership approach, influence, and relationship with his supporters.
His comments quickly went viral, drawing sharp disagreement from users who both defended and criticised his position, turning the discussion into another heated online political exchange.
In the post, Edochie challenged Obi’s legacy as a public figure and businessman, arguing that leadership should be measured by how many people are uplifted personally and economically.
“Peter Obi is not a true Igbo man. He does not have the spirit of Ndi Igbo in him. He’s not a leader,” he wrote.
He further referenced the Igbo philosophy of communal support, “onye aghana nwanne ya” (do not leave your brother behind), arguing that leadership should reflect the upliftment of others.
“The true spirit of Ndi Igbo is ‘onye aghana nwanne ya’. As you rise you lift others,” he added.
Edochie questioned Obi’s record in both public office and business, suggesting that his influence has not translated into visible personal mentorship or empowerment of individuals around him.
“How can you spend many years in power, many years as a successful business man, yet nobody can say he’s successful today because of you,” he wrote.
He contrasted this with his experience in the film industry, claiming that some colleagues attribute their success to him.
“In Nollywood, there are people who will tell you they’re successful today because of Yul Edochie,” he said.
The actor also accused Obi of failing to empower those close to him, raising broader questions about leadership responsibility and social impact.
“Not one person can say that about Peter Obi. Are you a sadist? What are you doing with the power God has given you?” he added.
Edochie concluded by linking personal empowerment to national leadership capacity, arguing that anyone unable to uplift those around them would struggle to transform a nation.
“If you can’t lift people around you out of poverty, you simply can’t lift Nigeria out of poverty,” he stated.
The post has continued to generate mixed reactions online, with supporters of both Edochie and Obi engaging in heated debate over leadership, accountability, and political loyalty.
