The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced the appointment of Agada Abuh Theophilus, a prominent critic of Peter Obi, the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, as the director of new media and strategic communications. Simultaneously, the party appointed Brian Dennis as the deputy director of new media and strategic communications.
Appointment Announcement
Osa Director, the NDC national publicity secretary, disclosed the appointments in a statement on Wednesday, June 10. He noted that these appointments are part of efforts to bolster the party's digital operations and media engagement strategy in preparation for future political activities.
Theophilus: A Vocal Critic of Obi
Theophilus has been a well-known voice in Nigeria's political landscape since the 2023 presidential election. He has consistently criticized Obi, the Obidient Movement, and various positions taken by the former Anambra State governor on national issues through his social media platform X. He has also challenged the political messaging of Peter Obi and questioned the direction and structure of the Obidient Movement following the 2023 general elections.
The NDC stated that Theophilus's appointment brings extensive experience in political communications, public relations, and corporate brand management.
Public Reactions
The appointment has elicited mixed reactions from Nigerians. Some comments include:
- Lagospidia remarked that Obidients may be in a difficult position, as they might have to accept the appointment of Theo, a figure widely seen as not aligned with Peter Obi.
- Nuhu Sada highlighted the importance of the appointment ahead of the 2027 elections, stating that political communication is a key battlefield and every appointment signals preparation.
- Good News criticized the appointment, questioning why the party would appoint someone known as an antagonist of its presidential candidate.
- Iwu Nna questioned how Theophilus would now market Obi as the NDC presidential candidate, given his previous disparaging remarks.
Related Developments
In related news, Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister, criticized Peter Obi for lacking courage as a politician. Wike, a former two-term governor of Rivers State, stated in an interview on June 1 that leadership involves confronting and solving existing problems. His remarks came in response to Obi's political trajectory from APGA to PDP, Labour Party, ADC, and now the NDC.
