Palpable tension erupted at PTI Junction in Warri, Delta State, on Thursday morning after youths participating in a 5KM Independence Day Run protested over the distribution of T-shirts bearing the image of President Bola Tinubu.
The event, organised under the banner of Soft Nigeria, took an unexpected turn when participants began receiving polo shirts featuring the president’s photograph, triggering anger among some of the youths.
According to reports, several participants expressed displeasure, claiming they were surprised by the political branding of the event. Viral videos circulating online showed some of the youths tearing the Tinubu-branded T-shirts in protest.
Others were heard chanting the name of Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), while repeatedly declaring, “We no go wear.”
The incident reportedly created tension at the venue as the youths rejected the branded clothing, turning what was expected to be a peaceful Independence Day exercise into a protest.
The development has sparked reactions on social media, with the controversy drawing attention to the intersection of political messaging and public events.
Afegbua Accuses Peter Obi of Making False Claims About Anambra’s Debt
Meanwhile, Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, has challenged claims concerning Anambra State’s financial position during the administration of former governor Peter Obi.
Afegbua alleged that Anambra State was indebted when Obi left office, insisting that records from the Debt Management Office (DMO) contradict the former governor’s claims.
The commissioner made the allegation during an appearance on Symfoni TV, where he criticised Obi’s public statements and questioned his portrayal of his personal lifestyle.
Afegbua accused the NDC presidential candidate of living what he described as a “fake life,” arguing that Obi’s public image did not reflect the reality of his claims.
He further explained that Obi’s lifestyle fell under what he termed “the five types of lies,” although the allegations remain Afegbua’s own characterisation.
The comments have added to the political debate surrounding Obi’s record as Anambra State governor and his public claims about governance, financial management and personal conduct.
The allegation regarding Anambra’s debt position has not, on the information provided, been independently verified against the relevant DMO records.
Political Reactions
The Warri protest and Afegbua’s remarks about Obi have emerged amid heightened political discussions in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While the incident at PTI Junction centred on youths rejecting politically branded clothing at an Independence Day event, Afegbua’s comments have renewed attention on the former Anambra governor’s record and political credibility.
Both developments have generated public interest, highlighting the role of political identity and competing narratives in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
