Yemi Obafemi
Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has defended has his candid remarks about Nigeria’s economic and social challenges, insisting that telling the truth about the country does not tarnish its image but rather strengthens and refines the nation.
Obi stated this in response to critics who accuse him of portraying Nigeria negatively on the global stage.
During a recent engagement at Johns Hopkins University in the United States, Peter Obi highlighted Nigeria’s economic decline over the past 25 years, which he said has significantly worsened the country’s poverty rate. The former Anambra State governor pointed out that Nigeria now has more poor people than China, Indonesia, and Vietnam combined. He attributed this troubling trend to the persistent issue of poor leadership, stressing that the destiny of any nation is directly linked to the quality of its governance.
However, Governor Sanwo-Olu criticized Obi’s remarks, describing them as unflattering and inappropriate. He expressed concern over Obi’s conduct, stating that his statements on international platforms portray Nigeria negatively rather than highlighting its strengths.
Speaking on Wednesday at the memorial lecture for Pa Edwin Clark in Abuja, Obi maintained that he did not de-market Nigeria in any way, but merely presented factual information.
Responding to accusations that he has “de-marketed” Nigeria through his global commentary, Obi firmly stated, “Truth does not in any way de-market a nation. Rather, it refines and strengthens it.” He warned against using the truth for political convenience, saying it dishonours the legacy of past heroes and undermines their struggles and ideals.
Obi urged Nigerians to reflect on whether the nation is still honouring the legacy of leaders like Chief Edwin Clark, whose values were anchored in justice, equity, service, and unity. He condemned a political system plagued by flawed elections, institutional decay, corruption, and worsening insecurity.
“This is not the Nigeria our founding heroes envisioned,” Obi stated, adding that ceremonial tributes are not enough. “The best way to honour Chief Edwin Clark and others like him is to restore integrity in governance, rebuild trust in our public institutions, and ensure that truth and justice are the foundations of our national journey.”
