Former Big Brother Naija housemate and comedian, DeeOne, has publicly advised former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to reassess his political strategy ahead of the 2027 general election.
In a viral Instagram video released on Saturday, DeeOne reacted to the emergence of the City Boy Movement, a political support group backing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. The movement, reportedly established by the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu, has drawn attention following reports that some former supporters of Obi in the South-East are now serving as coordinators and directors within the group.
Addressing the development, DeeOne cautioned against underestimating the City Boy Movement, describing its structure and mobilisation efforts as serious political groundwork rather than mere rhetoric.
He argued that Obi would need a more robust financial and operational strategy if he intends to remain competitive in 2027. According to the comedian, relying on goodwill and public sympathy would not be sufficient in a presidential contest.
“You cannot win a presidential election with sympathy votes,” DeeOne said, noting that while such support may have offered leverage in 2023, it may not yield the same impact in the next election cycle.
He further criticised Obi’s popular slogan, “We no dey give shishi,” suggesting that political campaigns require substantial funding for logistics, grassroots mobilisation, and the welfare of party agents. DeeOne alleged that during the 2023 elections, some Labour Party agents reportedly lacked basic provisions such as food and water at polling units.
The comedian maintained that investing in campaign infrastructure does not equate to vote buying, which is prohibited under Nigerian law. Instead, he said it involves legitimate campaign financing and operational planning. He also suggested that if personal funds are insufficient, Obi could mobilise supporters for transparent donations to fund campaign activities.
“Presidential election is not talk alone; you have to show workings,” he added, emphasising that internal criticism should not be mistaken for hostility but rather seen as a push for strategic improvement.
As political alignments gradually begin to take shape ahead of 2027, DeeOne’s remarks have sparked conversations online about campaign financing, grassroots organisation, and the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
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