Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, emphasized the need for Nigerian leaders to prioritize the immediate needs of the citizens over political ambitions.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday morning in Onitsha, Obi stressed the importance of addressing hunger and insecurity to prevent the country from becoming a failed state.
Obi said that there is urgent need to address hunger and poverty in Nigeria, stating that improving the lives of the poor should take precedence over forming political alliances. He supports a mega party only if it aims to alleviate these issues, rejecting any focus on state capture and unproductive consumption.
He stated, “I know we are in a state capture, but we should act in a manner that shows some decency. I am more concerned about how the poor Nigerian can feed and the urgent issues affecting Nigerians today. Politicians are often preoccupied with elections, but my focus is on reducing food prices.”
Highlighting the dire situation, he added, “Our people are dying of hunger. How do we make life more conducive for the poor Nigerian? How do we help our people earn more money and pull them out of poverty? These should be our concerns, not forming a mega party. If a mega party can achieve these goals, then I support it. But if it’s about state capture and continuing the cycle of consumption without production, I say no.”
Obi called on leaders to enhance their efforts in providing security, warning that the country could become a failed nation if nothing is done. “The primary work of government is the security of lives and property. It is the foundation on which people can live in any nation because no one can stay in an insecure place,” he said.
Expressing concern over Nigeria’s insecurity, Obi noted, “The news of killings and abductions has made Nigeria one of the most insecure places on earth. It is leading us towards a failed nation. I thank the government for their efforts so far, but more needs to be done. All leaders must join hands to combat this. In the South-East, governors need to unite to tackle these issues.”
Regarding the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, Obi asserted, “There is no reason for his continued detention, especially as the courts have granted him bail. The government must obey the court. Rule of law is an essential asset that we must cherish and uphold. I urge the government to release and engage with all those in similar situations. We are a democracy and should not act arbitrarily.”
Addressing the topic of protests, Obi distinguished between peaceful protests and riots. “I’m against riots or the destruction of government property because we will use scarce resources to repair them. However, I support peaceful protests for valid reasons, not for personal interests. Protests must be well-articulated and directed.”
Reflecting on past protests, he said, “When people protested against police brutality, I advised addressing leadership instead. Good leaders will ensure their agents act accordingly. The problem lies with leadership. Competent leaders with capacity and integrity will influence their agents positively.”
Obi also called for the release of all those detained due to protests or freedom of speech, including #EndSARS protesters and journalists. “We are a democratic country, and people have the right to express themselves freely and protest peacefully. We must listen to those who are unhappy. This is the essence of a democratic nation. We should stop acting dictatorial.”
In conclusion, Obi reiterated his focus on addressing the pressing issues affecting Nigerians rather than political maneuvering. “Our priority should be to improve the lives of Nigerians, not forming a mega party unless it serves the purpose of production and progress for the people,” he stated.
