Bashir Ahmad Defends Viral Photo With Peter Obi During Buhari Condolence Visit, Criticizes Obidients’ Backlash

Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad has addressed public criticism after sharing a photo with Labour Party’s Peter Obi during a condolence visit to the late President Muhammadu Buhari’s family in Daura, calling it a moment of mutual respect rather than political alignment.

The photograph, which surfaced online on July 16, quickly attracted backlash from Peter Obi’s supporters, many of whom questioned why the opposition figure would be seen with Ahmad, a vocal critic of the Labour Party movement.

Ahmad recounted greeting several dignitaries including Atiku Abubakar and Nasir el-Rufai before arriving at Obi’s seat. He noted that Obi recognized him and made a remark about a recent tweet of his. Later, as Obi was departing, the two shared a light-hearted exchange where Obi jokingly asked him to “come and support him,” also commenting on the vast farmlands he saw en route to Daura.

Ahmad said he posted the photos in good faith but was surprised by the hostile reactions from Obi’s support base, known as the “Obidients.” He expressed concern that their combative approach could harm Obi’s prospects of building the kind of political alliances necessary to win a national election.Peter Obi, a prominent opposition leader and former presidential candidate, had traveled to Daura to pay his respects following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Bashir Ahmad, known for his loyalty to Buhari, served as his media aide.

“There was nothing political about our brief exchange… it was purely a humane, respectful moment during a time of mourning,” Ahmad wrote. He added, “With such supporters who are only experts in bullying and gatekeeping, it is hard for Mr. Obi to build the broad coalition necessary to become President.”