Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential spokesperson, has disagreed with the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, over his allegations against the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.
Obi, in a statement titled ‘A New Dimension of Toxic Politics in Nigeria,’ alleged that he was prevented from greeting members of Nigeria’s Under-17 female football team at the airport on Monday.
The former Anambra State governor said he arrived at the airport that morning to board a flight to Enugu, where he spotted the team returning to the country following their victory.
Obi said he subsequently instructed his protocol officer, Jackie Wayas, to find out whether he could approach and welcome the players.
However, the NDC candidate claimed he was later informed that NFF officials had objected to the move, warning that they would all lose their jobs if he approached the team.
Reacting, Ahmad, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, faulted Obi’s interpretation of the incident, arguing that being denied access to greet the football team did not necessarily amount to political persecution.
He said protocol, security and administrative considerations might have informed the decision.
Ahmad added that “Nigeria is bigger than any individual or political party. Let us prioritise facts and responsibility over narratives that unnecessarily inflame political tensions.
“A new Nigeria is possible, but not through perpetual political antagonism.”
Flamingos: Bashir Ahmad disagrees with Peter Obi on allegations against NFF