The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has said Nigeria’s challenges are largely caused by its political leaders, insisting that the country is not poor but poorly governed.
Obi made the remark on Sunday while speaking at a thanksgiving service to mark the 50th anniversary of Oyo State, held at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.
According to him, Nigeria’s abundant resources have been mismanaged by the political class, urging citizens to continually pray for leaders to be guided in the proper use of public funds.
“I make a request to Nigerians. Please remember us politicians in your prayers. We are the problem of Nigeria. Nigeria is not a poor country; it is poorly governed,” Obi said.
He added that responsible leadership would change the nation’s fortunes if public resources were used for the common good.
“Remember us in your prayers that God should touch our hearts to use public money for the public good. If we do this, Nigeria will be good,” he stated.
The former Anambra State governor also commended the developmental strides recorded in Ibadan under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the city as historic and transformative.
“It is always an honour to be in Ibadan. It is a very historic city, a city of knowledge and hope. Ibadan has witnessed major upliftment under Governor Seyi Makinde,” Obi said.
He expressed optimism about the future of Oyo State, praying for continued progress and divine guidance for the governor and his team.
“As we celebrate these 50 years, I pray that the next 50 years of this great state will be exemplary,” he added.
