The controversial “Yes Daddy” leaked audio involving the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and the founder of Living Faith Church, Bishop David Oyedepo, continues to stir debates in Nigeria’s political landscape. More than a year after the audio was published by Peoples Gazette, questions remain unanswered about whether Obi will pursue legal action against the platform that released it.
The audio, which went viral in April 2023, purportedly captured Obi appealing to Oyedepo for support ahead of the elections. In the recording, the former Anambra State governor was heard addressing the clergyman as “Daddy” while seeking his intervention in mobilising Christian voters in the South-West and parts of the North.
The publication of the tape by Peoples Gazette caused uproar, sparking criticism from rival political camps who accused Obi of exploiting religion for political advantage. On the other hand, his supporters strongly rejected the authenticity of the audio, alleging that it was doctored to discredit him.
Despite Obi’s denial and condemnation of the report, many Nigerians are puzzled as to why the Labour Party flagbearer has not taken definitive legal steps against the online newspaper. In April 2023, Obi described the audio as “fake” and “politically motivated,” stating that it was another ploy by desperate politicians to dent his reputation. However, critics have since argued that if the audio was indeed fabricated, a libel or defamation lawsuit should have been filed by now.
Legal analysts note that in Nigeria, high-profile defamation cases often serve as avenues for politicians to clear their names in the court of law, especially when damaging allegations are involved. Obi’s silence, therefore, has led to speculation over whether he is reluctant to pursue litigation for strategic political reasons or whether his team believes engaging the platform would give the controversy unnecessary oxygen.
Meanwhile, Peoples Gazette has stood by its publication, insisting that the tape was authentic and sourced from credible intelligence contacts. The paper maintained that its editorial standards were upheld in the handling of the story and has not retracted the audio despite public backlash.
As the matter lingers, some political commentators have suggested that Obi might be calculating his next steps with the 2027 elections in mind. While others view his restraint as a form of maturity, there are still lingering doubts among Nigerians who expect a politician of his stature to protect his integrity in the courtroom, not just in public statements.
For now, the question persists: will Peter Obi ever sue Peoples Gazette over the “Yes Daddy” audio scandal, or will the controversy simply fade away into Nigeria’s crowded political history?