Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has asked Nigerians to pray for their political leaders, admitting that politicians bear the greatest responsibility for the country’s challenges.
Obi made the appeal on Sunday at a thanksgiving service marking Oyo State’s 50th anniversary at the Cathedral of St. Peter Anglican Church, Aremo, Ibadan.
“I want to make a request from Nigerians. Please remember us politicians in your prayers. We are the problem of Nigeria, no other person,” he said.
He added that Nigeria is richly endowed but suffers from poor governance.
“Nigeria is not a poor country; it is poorly governed. Pray that God touches our hearts to use public money for public good. That is what is required,” Obi told the congregation.
In a post on X, Obi thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for inviting him to speak at the service.
He recalled being invited to address Makinde’s maiden executive council retreat at the start of his administration, where discussions focused on leadership and governance.
Obi praised Makinde’s consistency in governance, saying his performance goes beyond visible infrastructure and is widely acknowledged by the people of Oyo State.
He also commended Makinde’s remarks at the thanksgiving service, particularly his emphasis on building strong institutions rather than relying on individuals.
“His focus on continuity, systems, and shared responsibility reflects a statesmanlike vision and reassures that Oyo State’s progress will endure beyond any single administration,” Obi said.
Obi further lauded Bishop Williams Aladekugbe of Ibadan North for delivering what he described as a timely sermon.
He noted that the message underscored thanksgiving as a moral discipline that promotes humility, responsibility, and service to society.
Rejects Vice Presidential Role, Confirms 2027 Bid
Obi also addressed speculation about his political future. He dismissed claims that he might accept a vice-presidential slot in the 2027 election, insisting he will contest as the leading candidate.
There have been calls from the Obidient Movement for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to field Obi as its presidential candidate, with many supporters declaring an “Obi or nothing” stance.
At the same time, supporters of former vice president Atiku Abubakar have urged Obi to consider a vice-presidential arrangement similar to 2019.
However, in a video shared by Daily Trust, Obi vowed to run as number one. While campaigning for the ADC candidate in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) elections, he told supporters their backing was crucial.
“You see this coming election, support us in AMAC; it will help me. Your support in AMAC is critical to our journey. I am involved and contesting the coming election as number one. When I come back, you will see. I assure you,” Obi declared.
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