Bashir Ahmad: Why I took photos with Peter Obi in Daura

Former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has explained the circumstances surrounding his meeting with Peter Obi, in Daura, Katsina State.

Ahmad, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, said their meeting happened during a prayer session at Buhari’s residence, where several important personalities had gathered to pay their respects following the late president’s death.

“When I arrived at Baba’s residence this morning, many dignitaries were already seated for the prayer session. I greeted Mamman Daura, then Atiku Abubakar, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, and then Mr. Peter Obi, who was sitting with Mallam,” Ahmad wrote on X.

He added that Obi expressed condolences and praised his loyalty to Buhari even after leaving office. “There was no talk of politics or pictures until much later, when he was about to leave,” Ahmed stated.

The former aide clarified that the photos were taken casually and were not politically motivated. “I didn’t visit Peter Obi; he came to us out of respect for President Buhari. It was purely a humane, respectful moment during a time of mourning,” he said.

Ahmad, however, expressed surprise at the backlash from Obi’s supporters after he posted the pictures. “I had expected criticism from my party for taking pictures with an opposition leader, but APC members understood the situation. Surprisingly, it was Obi’s supporters who launched the attacks,” he wrote.

He also criticised the behaviour of some “Obidients,” saying their intolerance could hinder Obi’s presidential ambition. “With such supporters who bully and gatekeep, it is hard for him to build the broad coalition necessary to become President,” he added.