The recent defection of former Anambra State governor Peter Obi to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified political exchanges between the Presidency and the opposition, with an aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accusing Aso Rock of showing signs of panic ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku’s Special Adviser on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, reacted to comments made by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, arguing that the tone of the statement reflected anxiety rather than confidence. He said Obi’s move simply exposed underlying fears within the ruling camp.

Shaibu criticized Onanuga’s remarks as defensive and unbecoming, highlighting the irony of calling Obi “wandering” while defending an administration shaped by political migrations and elite alliances.

He also rejected attempts to dismiss post-election discontent from 2023, insisting that public concerns remain valid. “When government communication descends into name-calling, it is usually because results are scarce and anger is abundant,” Shaibu said.

Addressing perceptions that Obi might “play second fiddle” to Atiku, Shaibu dismissed the notion as fiction. He said the emerging political coalition is about conversations and organization beyond the control of incumbents, not about individual hierarchies.

“Insults don’t win elections, spin doesn’t fill stomachs, and arrogance does not intimidate hungry people. Nigerians will decide in 2027, not media advisers or propaganda merchants,” Shaibu added.