Nigerian opposition leader Peter Obi denied allegations that he avoided an AIT television interview as controversy continued over his meeting with South African ministers on xenophobia and diaspora safety issues.
Obi’s critics claimed he skipped the broadcast to evade tough questioning about diplomatic discussions tied to xenophobia and Nigerian diaspora protections in South Africa. Obi said scheduling conflicts and prior commitments explained his absence, not fear of scrutiny.
The meeting with South African officials aimed to address tensions affecting Nigerian citizens abroad, according to statements from Obi’s camp. Rivals argued public transparency requires facing media outlets with large audiences such as AIT during ongoing disputes.
AIT producers reportedly reserved slots for Obi that remained unfilled, fueling social media disputes between supporters and detractors. Fact patterns center on whether invitations were firm and whether alternative dates were offered before the controversy escalated.
Analysts say the row intersects with broader 2027 election positioning, where foreign policy credibility and media accessibility become campaign weapons. Obi maintains he engages press regularly through other forums despite the AIT dispute.
Peter Obi denied avoiding an AIT broadcast amid ongoing controversy about his talks with South African ministers concerning xenophobia and protections for Nigerian citizens living abroad.
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News Headlines May 24, 2026. Headlines From Nigeria’s Major Newspapers