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A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Showunmi, has praised former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, for intervening to ensure a diplomatic resolution of the defamation issue involving Dele Farotimi.
Naija News reported that Peter Obi visited Afe Babalola, who filed a defamation suit against human rights lawyer, Farotimi, on allegations made in his book.
Obi’s visit to Babalola received condemnation from some critics, including former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore.
However, the former PDP governorship aspirant in Ogun State, Showunmi, stated that Obi’s visit showed leadership qualities.
“Dear Peter Obi, I consider your efforts on the Dele Farotimi saga a great sign and commendable effort! Without a doubt, your empathetic leadership credentials are greatly acknowledged.
“Indeed, since the 2023 election, you have been out there doing the best you can. I am proud to know you, and I believe that tomorrow holds great promise for our nation because of men like you and I. Okwute Nigeria, as I fondly call you. I am proud of you. A leader must do all he can to rescue one of his own,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi’s ally, Dr. Moses Paul, has defended the visit of the Labour Party chieftain to Babalola and advised Sowore to withdraw from attacking Obi’s move.
On his X handle on Tuesday, Paul explained that the former Governor of Anambra State had made other efforts to resolve issues against Farotimi.
“I am fully aware of the sacrifices of Mr. Peter Obi has made since Mr. Dele Farotimi was abducted. I know the people he has called, the places he has visited, and the efforts he has made to manage the situation. I have been with him and witnessed it all firsthand.
“Some of those criticizing him have likely never taken any meaningful action close to what Mr. Peter Obi has done to ensure no harm comes to Mr. Dele Farotimi. He has traveled under challenging conditions, navigating difficult terrains, to ensure Mr. Dele Farotimi’s safety.
“Those quick to judge should step out and move around instead of sitting comfortably in one place and merely commenting on the social media. If most critics had achieved even a fraction of what Mr. Peter Obi has in life, they likely wouldn’t make the sacrifices he does—visiting villages, enduring tough terrains, and dedicating himself to helping others.
“I was the only person who sat between Mr. Peter Obi and Dele Farotimi, and I am fully aware of the conversation that took place between them. It does not, in any way, align with what you are claiming.
“Mr. Peter Obi has consistently chosen a peaceful and issue-based approach, while you have embraced a more radical path. Throughout his presidential campaign, he has never mentioned or referenced you, choosing instead to focus on substance and maintain his dignified style. Yet, you have made it a habit to constantly reference and target him. Don’t you feel embarrassed of such unwarranted hostility?
“Mr. Sowore, continue with your work, but please stop running others down. Your only motive seems to be targeting Mr. Peter Obi. I reiterate—you were not part of the entourage. I was there,” he wrote.
