Nigerian music producer and social media personality, Samklef, has stirred controversy after declaring that former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, cannot compare politically with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Samklef made the remarks in a message posted on his social media pages, where he criticised Obi’s record in office and praised Tinubu’s political achievements.
His comments have generated strong reactions online, especially among supporters of both political figures. Samklef, who has become vocal in political commentary in recent years, insisted that his opinion was based on his “personal perspective” and urged followers to read his message carefully.
In the statement, Samklef claimed that Peter Obi’s performance as governor of Anambra State did not match the reputation his supporters give him. He argued that Obi’s record should be examined critically, including the state of security during his administration.
“What exactly did Peter Obi achieve in his own state when he was governor?” he asked. He alleged that several young people were killed during Obi’s administration, claiming that some were “thrown into the river,” although he did not provide specific evidence or dates to support the assertion.
Peter Obi served as governor of Anambra State between 2006 and 2014. His supporters often credit him for prudent financial management, improvements in education, and the saving of state funds. However, critics have argued that his tenure, like many others in the country, also had its challenges, including issues of insecurity and political tension.
Samklef reserved his strongest praise for President Bola Tinubu, who served as governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007. He said Tinubu demonstrated political courage and resilience during his time in office, especially during the disagreements between the Lagos State Government and former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“When Obasanjo was president, he held back Lagos State’s allocation and refused to fix parts of the 1999 Constitution,” Samklef said. “Tinubu built Lagos with loans, survived the pressure, invested in people, and still rose.”
The 1999 Constitution has long been criticized by political analysts and civil society groups for giving too much power to the federal government. Many argue that it does not support true federalism or allow states enough control over their resources. Samklef used this as part of his argument that Tinubu had worked under difficult conditions.
He also added a personal story, saying Tinubu once paid his school fees. “I went to Fagba Grammar School and Sinmori. Tinubu paid my school fees,” he said, suggesting that the President’s influence and support extended beyond politics into the lives of ordinary people.
Samklef further argued that President Tinubu is currently making efforts to restructure Nigeria, although he acknowledged that the country’s challenges are long-standing and deep-rooted.
“Today, that same Tinubu is paying every state their allocation and restructuring Nigeria little by little — but many people are too blinded by noise to see it,” he said.
Nigeria has been facing major economic pressures, rising inflation, foreign exchange challenges, and widespread insecurity. Tinubu’s government has introduced several reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification. While some experts say these reforms are necessary for long-term stability, many Nigerians have expressed concerns about the immediate hardship the policies have caused.
The music producer also cautioned Nigerians against expecting quick solutions to problems that have persisted for decades. According to him, the country’s structural and economic issues cannot be reversed within a short period, regardless of who leads the government.
“You want a country that has been sick for 60 years to be healed in just 2 years?” he asked. “Do you even know the name of your Local Government Chairman? Do you know how much your Representatives and Governors collect on your behalf?”
The comments reflect a common argument often made by public commentators who believe that Nigeria’s governance challenges require long-term approaches rather than immediate results.
Nigeria’s political environment in recent years has become highly active on social media platforms, with influencers, entertainers, and public figures frequently weighing in on national issues. Samklef is one of several entertainers who regularly comment on political affairs.
His criticism of Peter Obi comes at a time when political debates remain intense, especially after the closely contested 2023 presidential election in which Obi emerged as a major force. Obi finished third in the election but gained strong support from young voters and urban professionals nationwide.
President Tinubu, who won the election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has faced both praise and criticism for his leadership style and economic reforms.
Shortly after posting his message, Samklef’s comments drew sharp responses, particularly from supporters of Peter Obi, who argued that he was unfair or biased. Some accused him of trying to seek attention, while others defended his right to express his views.
On the other hand, supporters of President Tinubu welcomed his remarks, calling them “bold” and “honest.”
Some commentators have encouraged Nigerians to focus more on policy discussions instead of online arguments. They argue that productive political debate requires examining issues like security, economic recovery, job creation, corruption, and governance reforms.
