Hope Uzodimma Never Criticised Obi. When Asked About Obi, He Would Say, ‘Obi Is My Brother’ – Maxwell Opara

The Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Maxwell Opara, has called for greater respect among political leaders in the Southeast while discussing the treatment of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi by other politicians.

Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV on Monday, October 12, 2026, Opara examined Obi’s political relationships with prominent figures in the region and expressed concern about the criticism directed at him by some political actors ahead of the 2027 elections.

Opara argued that political rivalry should not make leaders disregard their personal connections and common regional identity. In making his point, he referred to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and described his reported response when asked about Obi as an example of acknowledging a relationship despite political differences.

Opara said, “Hope Uzodimma never criticised Obi. When asked about Obi, he would say, ‘Obi is my brother.’”

According to the NDC candidate, the example demonstrates why politicians should maintain a level of respect for one another instead of allowing their ambitions and party affiliations to create unnecessary hostility.

He expressed concern that some political figures had become more openly critical of Obi as political discussions surrounding the 2027 presidential contest intensified. He suggested that such attacks could distract attention from the issues that matter most to Nigerians.

Opara urged political leaders to prioritise national development and engage in meaningful discussions about public policy, governance and the country’s future. He maintained that opposition figures should be assessed based on their ideas and political programmes rather than subjected to personal attacks.

He also highlighted the importance of the Southeast in the next general election, arguing that the political interests and expectations of voters across the region should not be ignored by those seeking public office.

Opara concluded by encouraging politicians to approach their disagreements with maturity and restraint. He emphasised that electoral competition should not overshadow existing relationships or weaken the shared interests of communities within the Southeast.

Click on the link to watch the video from 1:03:57 – 1:04:04

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