Plateau-based cleric, Prophet Isa El-Buba, has explained why he withdrew his support for former Anambra State governor and presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
El-Buba said his decision was largely influenced by what he described as Obi’s lack of the courage required of a person seeking to lead Nigeria, adding that he had personally discussed some of his concerns with the former governor.
The cleric made his position known during an appearance on the ‘Mic On’ podcast hosted by journalist Seun Okinbaloye on Saturday.
El-Buba, who previously supported Obi’s political ambition, disclosed that he had now shifted his backing to the Social Democratic Party presidential candidate, Adewale Adebayo.
While describing Obi as a good person, the cleric said personal qualities expected of a national leader went beyond being a decent individual.
According to him, a leader must be prepared to confront difficult situations and take difficult decisions on behalf of the people, particularly when the country is facing serious challenges.
He said, “Peter Obi is a nice man. He is not a bad man. But there are certain things I saw and had discussed with him personally. When a leader loses courage, the first instrument of a leader in the midst of all trials is courage to take shots on behalf of the followers. When a leader loses that one thing, you lose me.”
El-Buba further faulted Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party and subsequently seek another political platform, saying the former governor should not have abandoned the party.
“I don’t think Obi is courageous. That’s an aspect of his weakness. Peter Obi has no business leaving LP and running here and there,” the cleric added.
