Banwo Defends Peter Obi Interview, Faults Obidients’ Criticism of Questions
Dr. Ope Banwo, founder of Naija Lives Matter (NLM), has dismissed criticisms by socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu and members of the Obidient Movement over the questions asked during Peter Obi’s recent appearance on Channels Television, insisting that anyone seeking Nigeria’s highest office must be prepared to face rigorous public scrutiny.
Reacting in a Facebook post, Banwo said the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate should not be shielded from difficult or repetitive questions simply because his supporters consider them unnecessary.
According to him, political challengers have a responsibility to respond to every legitimate question put before them.
“Someone tell Aisha Yesufu and Obidient leaders to stop whining about interview questions posed to Peter Obi. He is the challenger and must answer all questions or just get out,” Banwo wrote.
The lawyer and public affairs commentator further argued that journalists perform an important role by repeatedly asking politicians the same questions, particularly when they are seeking to convince voters.
Drawing a comparison with marketing, Banwo said effective communication often depends on repetition, adding that Obi’s message has yet to resonate clearly enough with many Nigerians.
He maintained that rather than complain about repeated questions, supporters of the former Anambra State governor should welcome every opportunity for him to restate and clarify his vision for the country.
Banwo’s remarks followed Obi’s live appearance on Channels Television’s *Sunday Politics* on July 26, where the former governor spoke on national issues, governance and his political outlook ahead of the 2027 general election.
The interview, conducted by Seun Okinbaloye, generated mixed reactions online, with some supporters praising Obi’s performance while others criticised the programme’s focus and questioning.
Among the critics was Aisha Yesufu, who described the interview as disappointing, saying it offered nothing new because the questions asked had been answered by Obi on several previous occasions.
She said she watched the programme expecting fresh issues to emerge but was left frustrated by what she described as a repetitive conversation.
According to Yesufu, viewers were denied the opportunity to hear Obi address new subjects that could deepen public understanding of his plans and positions.
She also questioned why Obi continued to face extensive media scrutiny while President Bola Tinubu, whom she accused of avoiding similar engagements, was not subjected to the same level of questioning.
“Usually when Peter Obi grants an interview, there is excitement about what he is going to say. This time, it was simply irritating because it was the same conversation all over again,” she said.
The exchange has since fuelled debate on social media over whether political interviews should focus on previously addressed issues or explore new areas capable of giving voters fresh insights into candidates’ ideas and leadership plans.
