Peter Obi: “Nigeria Is a Difficult Place for Good People to Govern”
In a sobering yet inspiring address, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has declared that governing Nigeria rightly is a near-impossible task, citing entrenched systemic resistance to progress and accountability.
Obi made the remark during a special thanksgiving service at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Umuahia, held to mark the two-year anniversary of Abia State Governor Alex Otti. The event drew political leaders, clergy, and citizens who have closely watched Abia’s dramatic shift in governance since 2023.
“It is difficult to govern Nigeria, especially when you want to do it right,” Obi said, urging prayers for Governor Otti and all well-meaning leaders. “We must ask God to touch the hearts of our leaders to use public money for public good. It is not our money we are only trustees.”
A Stark Reality Check from a Reform Advocate
Obi, known for his frugal governance style as former governor of Anambra State, painted a candid picture of Nigeria’s leadership crisis. His comments struck a chord with many, particularly amid ongoing national concerns about corruption, mismanagement, and wasteful public spending.
Yet, he expressed admiration for Governor Otti’s approach, saying his administration stands out as an example of purposeful leadership in action.
“We have come to celebrate two years with a difference. People always say they need eight or ten years to make change. But I say, one day one day is enough to begin that change,” he emphasized. “In Abia, the change is visible. You don’t need a radio or a newspaper to tell you. The people can see it.”
“I’m Not Desperate for Power. I’m Desperate to See Nigeria Work.”
In a powerful declaration, Obi reaffirmed that his ambition was never driven by power for power’s sake.
“I’m not desperate to be President. I’m desperate to see Nigeria work,” he said to thunderous applause. “We want future leaders like Governor Otti leaders who see power as responsibility, not personal reward.”
Otti: “All Glory Goes to God”
Responding, Governor Alex Otti attributed his administration’s strides to divine backing, quoting 1 Corinthians 3:6–7:
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.”
He added, “We’ve worked hard, but none of this would be possible without God. That’s why we return all thanks to Him.”
The governor praised his team and the support of the legislature and judiciary for advancing what he called “the New Abia Project” a vision to reset governance, infrastructure, and service delivery in a state once plagued by stagnation.
Church Backs Governance with Accountability
Earlier in the service, Pastor Enyinnaya Uguru, former President of the Abia North Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, issued a timely warning to public office holders.
“Never get carried away by today’s applause and lose sight of tomorrow’s vision,” he said, noting that Otti’s prior electoral setbacks were part of divine preparation. “Periods of delay are often periods of preparation,” he emphasized.
The clergyman affirmed the governor’s impact, saying: “You are doing well. I’m saying this because I have evidence.”
A Leadership Template for a Troubled Nation?
As Nigeria grapples with economic distress and a deficit of public trust, the synergy between Peter Obi’s reformist message and Governor Otti’s visible results could offer a much-needed blueprint for ethical governance and people-centered leadership.
Obi’s visit wasn’t just ceremonial it was a call to conscience for Nigeria’s leaders and a reminder to citizens that good governance is possible, even in difficult terrain.
Reference
Peter Obi: “Nigeria Is a Difficult Place for Good People to Govern”