The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, says he welcomes constructive criticism and does not support the vilification of his critics.
Obi said this in a statement shared on his verified Twitter handle on Sunday.
Popularly called ‘Obidients’, Obi’s supporters have been often faulted for ganging up on social media to rain insults on anyone who dares to criticise or question the candidate.
Two popular activists, Rinu Oduala and Aisha Yesufu, are the latest victims of the fury of Obidients.
Oduala was lambasted for daring to ask Obi’s views on police brutality while Yesufu suffered a similar fate for dissociating herself from membership of the party and its presidential campaign council, among others.
However, Obi said he supported the actions of critics trying to hold leaders accountable through constructive criticism.
“I have noticed that some who have questioned or constructively criticised my actions or pronouncements are also being criticised for speaking up.
“The new Nigeria we seek, is one in which citizens can criticise and hold leaders accountable.
“I welcome such constructive criticisms; it will make our leadership better, adaptive and responsive.
“When @AishaYesufu and @firstladyship criticises (sic) me publicly, I know they both mean well for me and for Nigeria.
“I know I have them in my corner. Salute!” he wrote.