By Oyero Abiodun Yakub
Anambra-born socialite, Prince Arthur Eze has separated himself from the presidential ambition of fellow indigenous man, Peter Obi.
The billionaire businessman made his position clear towards the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 forthcoming election, at the occasion of the 2022 Ofala festival in Ukpo, Dunukofia local government area of Anambra state.
He claimed to have warned Peter Obi from proceeding in the race and letting him know he is not part of his plans, adding that he should wait till next time.
He said, “when he told me about his ambition, I asked him the States he thinks he can win in the West and the North, I was not convinced by his response. I told him he cannot win so that he would not waste his time and money.”
Mr. Eze’s present declaration was in contrary to what was initially broadcasted about Obi’s ambition. He was alleged to have claimed that he’ll support Obi’s ambition with $500m and also mount 200,000 CCTV cameras at various polling units in Nigeria to enable a free and fair election.
Netizens Reaction
Peter Obi’s supporters on Twitter didn’t take the comment with levity. The ‘Obidients’ took to their various handles to air their displeasure with the businessman’s comment, with some digging out his previous political fallouts and comment.
A user, @C_FrancisArinze wrote, “Mr. Arthur Eze’s comment on Peter Obi is a clear sign that the 2023 election will be a tussle between the poor and the rich, the youth and the elders. If our Nigerian youths fail to take back their country in 2023, they will experience the worst suppression ever.”
Another user, @cchukudebelu tweeted, “Left to Arthur Eze, Peter Obi would never have been Anambra state governor. Peter Obi has fought people like Arthur Eze all his political life and won.”
@speakerengine wrote, “Nigerian youths, let’s send a message to the old crook Arthur Eze, that he should focus on making peace with God and leave our future for us, young people.”
@RealDestiny_El wrote, “Dear Peter Gregory Obi, for every Arthur Eze and Soludo that rises against you, there are one million Nigerian youths to counter them with vote. Do not be afraid, we are with you till the end.”
@IgweOdyssey wrote, “Arthur Eze only has a say in the land dispute between his town (Ukpor) and Abba. Peter obi’s candidacy is beyond his reach.
@Olubankoleidowu wrote, “Arthur Eze is just one man, we the poor masses are in large numbers and many a time Peter Obi has reiterated that we are his structure. Whether Obi is getting support from his Igbo brothers or not, we have resolved to stand by him and ensure the country is changed for the better.”
