Nigerian Professor of Political Economy, Pat Utomi, has reacted to a viral video showing a large crowd welcoming the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, during his visit to Jos, Plateau State.
The video, which has gained attention on social media, captured the moment Obi arrived in the state and was surrounded by enthusiastic supporters.
Obi, who was in Plateau State as part of his political engagements ahead of the January 2027 presidential election, also held an interaction with students of the University of Jos (UNIJOS).
Reacting to the footage, Utomi described the massive reception as evidence of the kind of public support that money and political machinery cannot manufacture.
The political economist argued that genuine love and loyalty from ordinary Nigerians must be earned rather than bought through financial incentives or organised political campaigns.
He also suggested that Obi’s connection with ordinary Nigerians distinguishes him from candidates of other political parties.
In a post reacting to the development, Utomi wrote:
“There is a kind of love that no amount of money can purchase, no political machinery can manufacture, and no army of hired voices can imitate.
“It must be earned, quietly, through the hearts of ordinary people. And that, perhaps, is what makes Peter Obi so remarkable. He is LITERALLY that man!”
