Human rights activist and political commentator, Deji Adeyanju, has sparked fresh controversy after declaring that he is bigger than former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Adeyanju made the statement during a podcast interview with Suen Okinbaloyi monitored by The News Chronicle, where he spoke about his political influence, public profile and his long-running disagreements with Obi.
The activist’s assertion is likely to fuel the already heated public debate surrounding his relationship with the former presidential candidate, whom he has repeatedly criticised over his political style, supporters and approach to public discourse.
Adeyanju has, in previous interviews, been openly critical of Obi and the movement built around him. In August 2025, he told Channels Television that he would vote for President Bola Tinubu if the opposition presented Obi as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election. He also accused Obi of encouraging an unfriendly political culture through the conduct of some of his supporters online.
The disagreement between both men has also taken a legal dimension. Obi filed a ₦1.5 billion defamation suit against Adeyanju in an Anambra State High Court, alleging that the activist made false and damaging statements about him. Adeyanju’s comments have included strong criticisms of Obi’s political leadership and influence.
Against that backdrop, Adeyanju’s latest claim that he is “bigger than Peter Obi” is expected to generate further reactions, particularly among supporters of the former governor and members of the Obidient movement.
The statement also comes as political alignments and personalities continue to attract intense attention ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Adeyanju, known for his outspoken commentary on Nigerian politics, has consistently positioned himself as a vocal critic of political figures and parties, insisting that his interventions are driven by his views on governance and accountability.
His latest remark, however, is likely to intensify the public conversation over the relative political influence and popularity of outspoken activists and established political figures such as Obi
