Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has said he will not resort to personal attacks against President Bola Tinubu, stressing that the office of the president commands his respect.

Obi made the statement on Friday, September 25, at the 2026 All Nigeria Editors’ Conference in Enugu, held under the theme, “The Ballot, the Media and the Task of Keeping Democracy Alive.”

The former Anambra State governor said political debates and disagreements should focus on public policies, governance and leadership performance rather than personal attacks.

“I cannot abuse any governor. I cannot abuse anybody in government. I don’t need to abuse people even in the federal government. I’ve never abused anybody. Who has seen me calling President Tinubu’s name? Never! I will not do that. He’s the President of the country, he has all my respect,” Obi said.

He, however, stressed that respecting public officials should not prevent citizens and journalists from scrutinising their actions, policies and decisions while in office.

Obi also said the character and integrity of political leaders have an impact on societal values, urging media editors to assess political leaders based on their records, public statements and professional qualifications.

He called for political discourse that prioritises issues affecting Nigerians and holds public officials accountable without resorting to personal insults.