In a recent interview on Symfoni TV, on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Afam Ogene, member of the House of Representatives representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State, reflected on political developments surrounding Peter Obi’s departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the reactions that followed ahead of the 2023 presidential election.
Ogene argued that many political observers underestimated the level of support Obi would eventually attract after leaving the PDP for the Labour Party. According to him, some critics dismissed the movement as a social media phenomenon without appreciating the broader public sentiment that was building across the country.
Speaking during the interview, Ogene stated, “In 2022, when Obi left the PDP for the LP, Oshiomhole said, ‘only four men tweeting from a room.’” He made the remark while discussing how perceptions about Obi’s political influence evolved over time.
According to the lawmaker, subsequent events demonstrated that Obi’s support base extended far beyond online platforms. He maintained that the Labour Party’s performance during the 2023 elections reflected widespread public engagement rather than a narrow social media campaign.
Ogene further noted that political leaders should be cautious about dismissing emerging movements, as public opinion can shift rapidly when citizens identify with a particular message or candidate. He argued that democratic politics requires a deeper understanding of voter sentiments.
The federal lawmaker also emphasized that opposition politics remains an important part of Nigeria’s democratic process. He said political competition should be encouraged as a means of strengthening accountability and broadening citizen participation.
He concluded by urging political actors to focus on substantive issues affecting Nigerians, stressing that electoral success is often determined by public trust rather than assumptions about a candidate’s popularity.
