The relationship between Peter Obi and Wole Soyinka has deteriorated significantly due to political disagreements and mutual criticisms. Here’s a breakdown of what went wrong:
1. **Initial Admiration**: In 2023, Peter Obi publicly admired Wole Soyinka for his contributions to justice and equity in Nigeria, considering him a father figure whose sacrifices should be acknowledged.
2. **Political Friction Begins**: Tensions arose after the 2023 elections when Obi’s running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, contested the victory of Bola Tinubu, claiming there was no president-elect. This statement sparked controversy, with Soyinka condemning it as undemocratic.
3. **Soyinka’s Criticism**: Soyinka’s criticism of Obi’s party and supporters, labeled as “Obidients,” intensified the rift. He viewed them as fostering fascism and criticized their conduct, which further strained relations.
4. **Visitation and Rejection**: In an attempt to mend relations, Obi visited Soyinka, but the literary icon rejected the gesture, stating he couldn’t relate to the “Obidient” movement and accusing them of empty posturing.
5. **Further Public Remarks**: Soyinka publicly asserted that Obi did not win the 2023 election and criticized the Labour Party’s leadership for what he perceived as deception and ethnicization of the party.
6. **Mutual Disparagement**: The relationship worsened as Soyinka continued to criticize Obi’s leadership and expressed doubts about his fitness for future leadership roles.
7. **Non-celebration of Soyinka’s Birthday**: Recently, Peter Obi notably did not join other statesmen in celebrating Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday publicly, which underscores the extent of the strained relationship.
Overall, political differences, public criticisms, and mutual disparagement have soured the once-admiring relationship between Peter Obi and Wole Soyinka, leading to a clear estrangement between the two leaders.