By Our Correspondent

National News – The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has warned that supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi could jeopardise his future political ambitions.

She made the remarks on Sunday via social media platform X, criticising the conduct of Obi’s followers, popularly known as “Obidients,” and describing their actions as harmful ahead of the 2027 elections.

Dabiri-Erewa stated that Obi must take responsibility for his supporters’ behaviour, arguing that their online attacks and reactions could ultimately work against him.

According to her, the situation, if not addressed, may weaken Obi’s chances in future contests.

She stressed that leadership involves guiding followers and ensuring discipline within political movements.

The NiDCOM boss also predicted that incumbent President Bola Tinubu would emerge victorious in the 2027 elections, adding that any opportunity for Obi, particularly if power rotates to the South-East, could be undermined by his supporters’ conduct.

She urged Obi to call his followers to order to avoid unintended consequences.

Responding to criticism over her comments, Dabiri-Erewa defended her right to express personal opinions online despite holding public office.

She maintained that her personal account allows her to respond to what she described as persistent attacks from Obi’s supporters.

The controversy followed her earlier post about engaging Nigerian professionals in Silicon Valley, where she highlighted their contributions to national development and shared her experience exploring technological innovations.

However, reactions from Obidients to that post reportedly triggered the exchange that led to her latest remarks.

The development has sparked debate within Nigeria’s political space, raising questions about the influence of online supporters on political figures and how such dynamics could shape the build-up to the 2027 general elections.