Human rights activist and legal practitioner Comrade Deji Adeyanju has declared that he would cast his ballot for incumbent President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election if the opposition coalition adopts Labour Party candidate Peter Obi as its flag bearer.
Adeyanju made the assertion during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief program, firmly rejecting accusations that he was working to covertly promote the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
”God forbid that I support APC,” Adeyanju stated. “If the opposition presents Peter Obi, I will vote Tinubu. We cannot have a situation where a man who leads a mob that terrorizes people online, that cannot tolerate criticism, that calls everybody that does not support their candidate an enemy of Nigeria become a President.”
The legal practitioner directed sharp criticism at the political culture surrounding Obi’s primary base, the “Obidient” movement, describing its online apparatus as an aggressive entity focused on suppressing dissent and intimidating political rivals. He contended that any voice offering constructive criticism is routinely labeled an adversary of the nation or accused of financial compromise, characterizing the conduct as fundamental antagonism toward democratic culture.
Adeyanju also challenged Obi’s democratic credentials, arguing that true leadership demands a willingness to tolerate opposition and endure personal sacrifices. Defending his personal political record, the activist noted that he has historically supported candidates across party lines based on credibility, citing his past votes for former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.
The broadcast followed weeks of escalating friction between both figures. Ahead of the interview, Obi’s legal team at Ejesimen & Co. Madiba Chambers had served Adeyanju a formal demand for a retraction and public apology regarding alleged defamatory posts published on social media. Adeyanju publicly dismissed the legal demand, declaring his readiness to defend his statements in court.
The dispute subsequently culminated in formal litigation, with Obi filing a ₦1.5 billion defamation suit against Adeyanju in the Anambra State High Court in Onitsha. The suit alleges that Adeyanju engaged in a persistent, malicious campaign to damage Obi’s political standing and reputational integrity.
