The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI), has expressed strong support for the recent political moves by Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, describing them as a significant step toward national unity and collaboration.

In a statement by the Director of Strategic Communication for DWI, Dr. AbdulRazak Ahmed, the group commended Obi’s visit to Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, who also serves as the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum.

He said Obi’s visit to Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the esteemed leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, marks a pivotal moment in Nigerian politics.

According to DWI, the visit marks a crucial moment in Nigerian politics, signaling a shift toward greater cooperation among political leaders.

Ahmed said: “We commend Peter Obi for his courageous decision to embrace the most powerful opposition party in the country, thereby positioning himself squarely within the mainstream political discourse.

“Peter Obi’s visit culminated in a respectful homage to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji (Dr) Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu. This gesture not only reflects Obi’s recognition of the vital role traditional institutions play in promoting peace and unity within our communities but also underscores his commitment to engaging with all facets of Nigerian society.

“Traditional leaders have historically been instrumental in fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse groups, and their involvement in political discussions enhances the legitimacy of efforts aimed at fostering national cohesion.

“We applaud Governor Bala Mohammed’s commendation of Peter Obi’s dedication to nation-building and inclusive leadership. Such praise is significant, as it emphasizes the necessity for collaboration among leaders from different political backgrounds.

“It highlights a shared vision for Nigeria, one that transcends partisan divides and strives for the advancement of a prosperous and harmonious nation.”

The group echoed Governor Mohammed’s call for unity and politics without bitterness, urging all political leaders to prioritize dialogue and mutual respect in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.

He added, “In this light, we urge Peter Obi to consolidate the momentum generated by this visit. By aligning himself with the PDP and engaging in meaningful discussions with its leadership, he has the opportunity to redefine his political narrative and amplify his impact on the national stage.

“Unlike former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who appears to have lost focus and is attempting to fight from the periphery, Peter Obi has the chance to be at the forefront of a transformative political movement that prioritizes unity and progress.

“Governor Bala Mohammed’s advocacy for unity and politics without bitterness is a timely reminder of the values that should guide Nigeria’s political landscape. As our nation grapples with complex challenges, the emphasis on mutual respect, tolerance, and collective responsibility is essential for creating an environment conducive to growth and development.

“Leaders must heed this call, recognizing that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and the capacity of its people to unite for a common purpose. Only through such unity can Nigeria hope to realize its full potential and build a brighter future for all its citizens.

“The Democracy Watch Initiative celebrates Peter Obi’s strategic engagement with Governor Bala Mohammed and the Peoples Democratic Party. We look forward to seeing how this collaboration will unfold and contribute to the greater good of Nigeria. We encourage all political leaders to embrace dialogue, foster inclusivity, and work together towards the common goal of national advancement.”

Ijaws for Tinubu 2027, a political group, has called for the immediate dismissal of Nyesom Wike as FCT Minister over his remarks concerning the Ijaw people.

Tamuno Esiri, the group’s leader, made this demand in a statement in Port Harcourt on Friday.

“The Ijaws for Tinubu 2027 demand the immediate removal of Wike if President Tinubu is determined to secure a second term, which he deserves,” Mr Esiri said.

During an interview with journalists on the political crises in Rivers, Mr Wike allegedly referred to the Ijaw people as a minority ethnic group in the Niger Delta.

Mr Esiri condemned Mr Wike’s assertion, insisting that the Ijaws are among the dominant ethnic groups in the region.

He claimed that Mr Wike’s comments if left unchecked, could harm President Bola Tinubu’s chances of re-election in 2027.

“We believe Wike is deliberately undermining the president’s support among the Ijaw people, who constitute a majority in the Niger Delta.

“In our view, Wike’s presence in President Tinubu’s cabinet poses a threat to democracy and peace in the Niger Delta,” he said.

Mr Esiri also urged Mr Tinubu to rein in Mr Wike over his alleged involvement in escalating political crises in Rivers and his purported insults directed at respected elders and political leaders across the country.

He advised the president against believing Mr Wike could still deliver Rivers in the 2027 general elections.

“President Tinubu should note that Wike has lost the political goodwill he carried into the 2023 elections, as an overwhelming majority of Rivers people are firmly behind Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

“Any political interest that believes the FCT Minister can secure victory for the president in the 2027 elections in Rivers State should have a rethink,” he added.

Mr Esiri also criticised the Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly for allegedly proposing bills that could further destabilise the state’s political landscape.

He issued a 14-day ultimatum for the lawmakers to heed Mr Tinubu’s call for peace by allowing Mr Fubara to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

“The legislators must immediately desist from initiating self-serving and anti-River State bills, or they should prepare to be recalled by their constituents.

“If the lawmakers fail to promote peace, we will collaborate with all well-meaning groups and Rivers people who support Governor Fubara and President Tinubu to initiate their recall process.

“The Ijaws for Tinubu 2027 demand the total liberation of Rivers State,” Mr Esiri concluded.