Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has defended his recent public remarks about Nigeria’s economic and political state, insisting that truth-telling is not an act of sabotage but a patriotic duty.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Obi addressed criticisms suggesting that his comments on Nigeria’s challenges amount to de-marketing the country on the international stage.
“Telling the truth about Nigeria’s economic and social conditions does not in any way de-market the nation. Rather, it refines and strengthens it,” Obi wrote.
Although he did not name names, his statement followed Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s accusation last week that Obi had spoken negatively about Nigeria during a public appearance at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.
Sanwo-Olu had urged prominent Nigerians to uphold the country’s image while abroad, rather than making disparaging comments before a global audience.
Obi, however, countered that political convenience should never override truth and accountability.
“The moment we begin to weaponise the truth for political convenience, we dishonour the legacy of those who came before us. We betray the very essence of their sacrifices, their struggles, their hopes, and their dreams,” he stated.
The former governor made these comments following his attendance at a memorial lecture for elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark, where he shared the stage with former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon.
In his address at the event, Obi criticized the apparent silence of many who had vocally opposed government policies under President Jonathan, particularly during the 2012–2013 protests against rising fuel prices and inflation.
“What has suddenly happened to the protesting voices in this country? Where are those who called President Jonathan names over fuel and food price hikes — now that things have worsened exponentially?” Obi asked.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s current socio-economic realities, pointing to rising poverty, worsening insecurity, and decaying institutions.
“We are losing innocent lives daily through insecurity, poverty, poor healthcare, and avoidable hardship. This is not the Nigeria our founding heroes envisioned,” he said.
Obi concluded by urging a return to governance anchored in integrity, justice, and national equity.
“Nigeria must work for all Nigerians — not just for a privileged few,” he added.
Comments