Presidential candidate Peter Obi has lamented that he was prevented from greeting the Flamingoes who just won the U-17 female World Cup.

According to Obi, he saw them arrive at the airport while he was on his way to board his flight to Enugu.

"There, I saw the Nigeria Under-17 girls' team, which had just arrived and was preparing to board its vehicle into town.

"With genuine joy and enthusiasm, I asked my Protocol Officer, Jackie Wayas, to find out whether I could greet and welcome the team. I was informed that officials of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had refused and had requested that I not approach them because, if I did, they would all lose their jobs.

"Regrettably, this is not the first time I have been subjected to such treatment. On March 25, 2025, I was in Uyo for the World Cup qualifier. The governor warmly received me and welcomed me at the VIP stand. Following the match, other government officials went to greet the players, but I was again prevented from doing so. I was told by the officials that they would lose their jobs if I proceeded," he said.

According to him, the incident reminded him of the new dimension of politics in Nigeria, which revolves around toxicity.

"It is deeply troubling to witness the extent of toxic politics into which our nation has descended since 2025. Each year appears to bring further deterioration. This reflects how deeply Nigeria has been affected.

"The new Nigeria we aspire to build must have no room for hostility, intimidation, or discrimination, regardless of political affiliation. It must be a Nigeria in which unity, mutual respect, and our shared humanity take precedence over political differences," he said.

ASA