Former chairperson of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and political commentator, Lauretta Onochie, has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to invite Peter Obi, former Vice President and prominent political figure, for questioning over his comments made at a religious gathering. The remarks have sparked controversy and raised concerns over their potential to incite religious tensions.
The controversy stems from a recent religious event where Peter Obi delivered a speech on interfaith cooperation and tolerance. During his address, Obi made statements that some critics argue were divisive and could potentially incite religious sentiments. While Obi’s supporters claim that his intentions were misunderstood and that he was advocating for unity among different religious groups, others believe that his choice of words was inappropriate for the occasion.
Lauretta Onochie, a vocal supporter of the ruling party and known for her strong stance on national unity and security, wasted no time in voicing her concerns. In a series of tweets and a subsequent press conference, she called on the DSS to intervene and investigate Obi’s statements further.
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Onochie stated, “We cannot afford to allow any form of religious or ethnic tensions to fester in our country. Mr. Obi’s remarks, though made with good intentions, have the potential to be misconstrued and misused by individuals or groups seeking to disrupt our nation’s peace. It is the responsibility of the DSS to ensure that such statements do not lead to any form of unrest.”
The call for an investigation has ignited a political firestorm, with members of different political parties weighing in on the matter. Some argue that Onochie’s request is politically motivated, given her affiliation with the ruling party, while others express genuine concern about the need for responsible speech in a diverse and multi-religious country like Nigeria.
The Department of State Services has not yet issued an official statement regarding whether they will heed Onochie’s call for an investigation into Peter Obi’s remarks. However, the agency is known for its role in maintaining national security and ensuring that public statements do not lead to violence or unrest.
As this situation unfolds, the debate over free speech, religious tolerance, and political influence continues to dominate the Nigerian political landscape. The DSS’s response to Lauretta Onochie’s request will undoubtedly shape the narrative and determine the path forward in this developing story.