The Peter Obi Media Office (POMR) has condemned Vice-President Kashim Shettima over his description of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) opposition figure, Peter Obi, as “diminished,” accusing him of showing selective respect for opposition leaders.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its spokesman, Idris Zekeri Jnr, the media office said Shettima’s remark was inconsistent with the standards of political decency expected of a public office holder.
POMR was reacting to comments attributed to the Vice-President in which he reportedly urged Northerners to respect former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar while describing Obi as diminished.
The office questioned why Shettima would call for respect for one opposition leader while dismissing another, arguing that political disagreements should not become a justification for personal attacks.

It said Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), had maintained an issue-based approach to political engagement and avoided abusive language against his opponents.
The statement also challenged Shettima to compare records of governance rather than resort to name-calling, noting that both men served as governors during the same period.

According to POMR, Obi’s administration in Anambra State recorded achievements in fiscal management, education and healthcare, which it said earned him recognition and awards.
“If Shettima contests any aspect of Obi’s record, he should present the facts rather than resort to political name-calling,” the statement said.

The media office also criticised South-East political leaders whom it accused of disrespecting Obi, urging them to reflect on what it described as the Vice-President’s selective approach to showing respect to opposition figures.
It further called on Igbo leaders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other Nigerians to reject political loyalty as a justification for tolerating disrespect toward fellow citizens.

POMR maintained that Nigerians should assess political leaders based on their records, ideas and policy proposals rather than personal attacks.
“The Nigerian people, rather than Shettima’s rhetoric, will determine Peter Obi’s political relevance,” the statement added.