By John Umeh
A political rift is widening between Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, and Charles Chukwuma Soludo, the current governor of the same state. Once seen as part of the same progressive political lineage, the two leaders are now publicly at odds, sparking debates across Nigeria’s political landscape.
The tension between Obi and Soludo has been building gradually but recently intensified due to a series of public criticisms, political jabs, and differences in governance philosophy. At the center of the feud is a clash of ideologies, political ambitions, and competing visions for Anambra State and the Southeast region.
Governance Record and Public Criticism
One major flashpoint in their fallout came when Governor Soludo openly criticized Peter Obi’s performance as governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014. In a widely circulated interview, Soludo dismissed Obi’s legacy, claiming his economic achievements were exaggerated and not as impactful as portrayed in the media. He also questioned the sustainability of Obi’s policies, especially regarding savings and investments, which had previously earned Obi praise for fiscal prudence.
Obi’s supporters saw Soludo’s remarks as politically motivated, especially given the timing—just months before the 2023 general elections where Obi emerged as a popular candidate with a large youth following. The comments sparked a public backlash, especially among Labour Party loyalists, who accused Soludo of trying to undermine Obi’s national influence out of envy or allegiance to opposing political interests.
Political Allegiances and National Ambitions
While Peter Obi is now a leading figure in the Labour Party, Soludo remains a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)—a regional party with deep roots in Anambra but limited national presence. The friction between the two leaders may also reflect a broader power struggle for political dominance in the Southeast.
With Obi enjoying nationwide popularity following his strong showing in the 2023 presidential election, his influence has grown beyond Anambra. Meanwhile, Soludo, seen as a technocrat with national ambitions, is trying to maintain his grip on state politics while projecting himself as a credible voice for the region. The overlapping ambitions may be contributing to their increasingly hostile relationship.
Recent Exchanges and Escalation
In recent months, their feud has escalated from subtle digs to more direct confrontations. Soludo has accused Obi of failing to address key developmental issues during his time in office, while Obi’s allies have fired back, accusing the current administration of failing to build on the foundations Obi laid.
Analysts believe Soludo’s sharp tone may be a preemptive move to block Obi’s growing influence in Anambra ahead of future elections, particularly if Obi plans to continue his presidential campaign or support Labour Party candidates at the state level.
Impact on Southeast Politics
The ongoing clash has significant implications for political unity in the Southeast, a region already grappling with economic challenges and security concerns. Many observers worry that the Obi–Soludo feud could further divide the political landscape, weakening the region’s bargaining power on the national stage.
Despite the public squabble, calls have emerged from traditional rulers, civil society groups, and religious leaders urging both men to set aside their differences and focus on the region’s development. They stress the need for collaboration rather than confrontation, especially at a time when the Southeast needs a unified front to address pressing socioeconomic issues.
The political war between Peter Obi and Charles Soludo is more than a personal dispute—it is a power struggle with regional and national implications. As both leaders continue to influence public opinion and policy, their ability—or inability—to reconcile could shape the political future of Anambra State and the Southeast as a whole. For now, their ongoing conflict remains a focal point in Nigerian politics, watched closely by allies, critics, and citizens alike.
