Tinubu's Performance Convinced Me to Leave Obidient Movement, Says Former Supporter
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- James Kitiya, a former supporter of Peter Obi, has switched allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing Tinubu's performance and infrastructural development.
- Kitiya praised Tinubu's administration, particularly the ongoing Coastal road project, and contrasted APC's performance-based campaign with the Obidient movement's focus on criticism.
- Despite rating Tinubu 50% due to hunger issues, Kitiya believes Tinubu has a high chance of winning and has officially joined the ruling APC party.
The political landscape in Nigeria is dynamic, and James Kitiya's public declaration of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, after previously backing Peter Obi, is a testament to this. Kitiya's decision, as reported by Vanguard, stems from his personal observation of infrastructural development and what he perceives as Tinubu's effective governance, particularly highlighting projects like the Coastal road. This perspective from a former 'Obidient' supporter offers a glimpse into the shifting allegiances and the factors influencing voter sentiment.
The way I look at things, with the momentum Tinubu is getting, I donโt want to make a mistake for the second time. There is an 80 per cent chance that Tinubu will win the election. Go online and check for the Jagaban Frontliners.
Kitiya's critique of the 'Obidient' movement, suggesting it relies on attacks rather than achievements, provides a counter-narrative to the opposition's usual framing. He emphasizes the APC's strategy of campaigning on tangible accomplishments. While acknowledging the challenges of hunger, which he rates as a significant issue impacting Tinubu's performance, Kitiya's overall assessment leans towards optimism regarding Tinubu's electoral prospects, even predicting an 80% chance of victory. This internal assessment from within the political fold is valuable.
I am supporting Jagaban because of the work I see. They started the Coastal road. 10 minutes away from my office in Eko Atlantic. I see the road construction every morning. He (the president) is doing things, but na hunger no allow make people see am. The policies implemented are good, but I want the president to know that people are hungry. To be sincere, I will rate Tinubu 50%, which is fair.
From the viewpoint of a Nigerian publication like Vanguard, stories like Kitiya's are important because they reflect the diverse opinions and evolving political calculations within the country. It's not just about the major party leaders; it's also about how individuals, who were once vocal supporters of one side, reassess their positions based on perceived performance and future potential. The article also touches upon the public's reaction to Kitiya's perceived political flexibility, showing the scrutiny public figures face. This narrative highlights that political support in Nigeria can be fluid, influenced by a mix of ideology, performance, and strategic calculations.
The difference between the APC structure and the Obidient movement is that APC tries to campaign based on what they have achieved, but Obidients are known to always insult opponents. I dey among those wey dey fight people back then.
Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.