Oseloka Obi, son of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, has broken his silence amid swirling online speculation and criticism—calling the attention on his private life “distractions” from Nigeria’s real issues.(The Eagle Online)

Speaking Truth to Online Rumors

In a public statement, Oseloka shared that he had previously refrained from engaging with the vitriol. But with false narratives refusing to subside, he finally addressed them head-on:

“Because of my father’s involvement in Nigerian politics, there has been a persistent curiosity—and, at times, malicious obsession—with me. I have no social media presence and no interest in maintaining one, so I rarely correct these falsehoods. But perhaps it is time I address them.”

He went on to highlight the pettiness of conflating his private life with political messaging:

“To assume that my life or choices are somehow political statements is a flawed and childish calculation. It reveals more about the pettiness of those spreading such narratives than it does about me or my father.”

As a professional actor and filmmaker, Oseloka underscored that his career path was chosen independently of his father’s political legacy:

“I was raised to know that my father’s wealth is not mine, and that I must build my own life.”

The attention to his personal life, according to him, distracts from the real and pressing challenges Nigeria faces:

“Our nation still struggles with insecurity, a weakened economy, crumbling infrastructure, failing healthcare, and politicians who steal from the people they swore to serve. And yet, for some, the priority is to spread gossip about who Peter Obi’s son appears with in a photo.”

Voices of Solidarity

Celebrities and commentators have also weighed in. Popular comedian Seyi Law condemned the smear campaign and stressed the importance of respecting individual boundaries:

“Family is off limits… Please, let the young man be. He is not his father, neither is he the one that made him some people’s choice.”

At the heart of Oseloka Obi’s response lies a call for maturity, focus, and national healing. Perhaps this moment can remind us that real progress comes when we rise above distractions and work together for Nigeria’s future. 💡

Do you agree with Oseloka’s stand, or do you think public figures must always face scrutiny, no matter what? Share your thoughts in the comments 👇