A recent photograph of Labour Party leader Peter Obi slightly bending while shaking hands with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has gone viral on social media, triggering intense online discussions about humility, body language, and political positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.
The image, originally posted by Atiku on his social media accounts, shows the two opposition figures exchanging greetings during a recent meeting following their alignment under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.
The slight bend in Obi’s posture has divided public opinion. Some Nigerians view it as a natural display of respect and cultural courtesy, especially given Atiku’s seniority in age and political experience.
Others interpret the gesture as a sign of deference that could be seen as submissive, questioning whether it reflects weakness or low confidence for someone aspiring to lead the nation.
Critics online have suggested the posture might signal potential challenges for Obi in asserting authority within any future power-sharing arrangement in the opposition bloc.
Activist Maduabuchi Idam defended Obi, dismissing the intense scrutiny as unnecessary and superficial. In a widely circulated statement, he wrote:“This picture has been trending since it surfaced on the internet today after being posted by Alh. Atiku Abubakar himself.
"The reason it has enjoyed such attention is not far-fetched. Mr. Peter Obi had a handshake with Atiku Abubakar almost on his bended knees.
"A character only exhibited by sycophants or favour seekers. Peter Obi has always presented himself as gentle but firm, calm yet resolute. His disposition has never suggested aggression, and that should not be used to undermine his capacity for leadership.”
Idam added:“Nigeria’s problem is not the absence of haughty characters but the habit of forcing square pegs into round holes.”
The moment reflects a similar incident from 2022 at the Nigerian Bar Association conference, where Obi attempted to kneel in greeting Atiku, who quickly stood to embrace him instead highlighting their long-standing mutual respect despite previous political competition.
Neither Peter Obi nor Atiku Abubakar has issued an official comment on the viral photograph.
The debate continues to trend online, reflecting broader conversations about leadership style, cultural norms, and political optics as opposition figures work to present a united front against the ruling party in the lead-up to 2027.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com