Photo of Peter Obi Greeting Atiku on Bent Knees Sparks Debate

A photograph of Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi exchanging a handshake with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has generated widespread reactions on social media after it was shared online by Atiku himself.

The image, which shows Obi slightly bent while greeting Atiku, has been interpreted by some Nigerians as a sign of submission or deference. Critics have argued that the posture is unbecoming of a politician seeking the highest office in the country, with some describing it as evidence of low self-esteem or political weakness.

Several commentators have suggested that the photograph raises questions about Obi’s ability to assert himself politically, particularly within the newly formed African Democratic Congress, where both politicians are members. Some observers noted that optics in politics can influence public perception, and moments like this are often seized upon by opponents to cast doubt on a candidate’s leadership qualities.

However, activist and public commentator Maduabuchi Idam has dismissed such interpretations as superficial and warned against overanalyzing a single gesture. In a statement made available to journalists, Idam acknowledged that casual observers might draw negative conclusions from the photograph, but urged Nigerians to focus on competence, integrity, and results rather than body language alone.

According to Idam, Obi has consistently projected himself as a calm, disciplined, and principled leader, and that gentleness should not be mistaken for weakness.

“This picture has been trending since it surfaced on the internet today after being posted by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar himself. The reason it has enjoyed such attention is not far-fetched. Mr. Peter Obi had a handshake with Atiku Abubakar almost on his bended knees, a character only exhibited by sycophants or favour seekers,” Idam said.

He continued, “Peter Obi has always presented himself as gentle but firm, calm yet resolute. His disposition has never suggested aggression, and that should not be used to undermine his capacity for leadership.”

Idam also emphasized that Nigeria’s political challenges are not caused by the absence of assertive personalities but by the repeated imposition of unsuitable leaders. He urged Nigerians to encourage authenticity among political actors rather than rewarding pretence. Leadership, he said, should be evaluated based on competence, capacity, and integrity rather than optics or isolated gestures.

“Nigeria’s problem is not the absence of haughty characters but the habit of forcing square pegs into round holes. Political maturity requires that we value substance over appearance,” he added.

The debate around the photograph highlights the growing scrutiny of politicians’ public conduct in Nigeria, particularly as social media amplifies every gesture. Analysts say that while optics matter, voters are increasingly encouraged to look beyond symbolic acts and evaluate candidates on their track record, vision, and ability to deliver tangible results.