Peter Obi Highlights Challenges of Good Governance in Nigeria

Labour Party presidential contender in 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has characterized Nigeria as a challenging environment for virtuous individuals to govern, citing systemic obstacles and resistance to progressive change.

During a special church service at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Aguiyi Ironsi Layout, Umuahia, commemorating the two-year anniversary of Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Obi urged public office holders to utilize public resources for the welfare of the populace.

“It is arduous to govern Nigeria, particularly when one strives to do so with integrity. Persist in remembering the Governor and his team in your prayers. Extend the same for Nigeria; that God may influence our leaders to employ public funds for the common good. It is not our money—we are merely stewards,” Obi asserted.

Obi, who extolled Governor Otti’s performance since his assumption of office, remarked that Otti’s administration signifies a distinct departure from convention and ought to serve as a paradigm for other leaders nationwide.

“We are here to celebrate two years of distinction. People often claim they require eight or ten years to effect change, yet I have always maintained that even a single day can make a difference. In Abia, the transformation is evident—you don’t need the radio or someone to inform you,” he declared.

Emphasizing his lack of desperation for power, Obi added, “I am not desperate to be President. I am eager to see Nigeria thrive. We desire future leaders akin to Governor Otti.”

Governor Otti, in his remarks, attributed the modest accomplishments of his administration to divine grace and guidance.

Quoting 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, he stated,

“I planted the seed, Apollos nurtured it, but God bestowed the growth. We have all labored diligently, yet none of it would have materialized without God’s support. Hence, we extend all gratitude to Him, ” he said.

He acknowledged the backing of the legislative and judicial branches of government, as well as his team, for their contributions to what he dubbed “the new Abia project.”

Otti also expressed gratitude to Obi for his unwavering support and leadership, describing him as “an exemplary beacon of good governance.”

Earlier in his sermon, Pastor Enyinnaya Uguru, former President of the Abia North Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, cautioned leaders against becoming complacent with current accomplishments at the expense of long-term vision.

He observed that God’s purpose was realized in Governor Otti’s eventual emergence in 2023 following several unsuccessful attempts, noting that “periods of delay are often periods of preparation.”

Pastor Uguru, while commending the Governor’s performance, remarked, “You are doing well. I am affirming this because I possess evidence.”

The thanksgiving service was well attended by government officials, political stakeholders, religious leaders, and citizens from across the state.