Discuss Nigeria’s Problems And Not Me, Obi Tells Critics

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, wants politicians and his critics to discuss issues affecting the country instead of talking about him. 

Obi spoke during an exclusive interview with Channels Television, which was aired on Sunday Politics.

When asked about his reaction to opposition politicians mentioning his name during interviews, Obi said, “Well, it’s not about what they are discussing about me. 

“Calling me names doesn’t make me feel anything. But they are abandoning issues we are supposed to discuss and discussing what I think is irrelevant. 

“We have a situation where over 180 million Nigerians are in poverty, and the World Bank has warned of severe hunger. These are the critical issues we should be discussing, not discussing Peter Obi. I am not the problem of Nigeria. If they want to discuss anything, let them discuss how to pull our people out of poverty, out of hunger, and secure the country.”

According to the former Anambra State governor, Nigeria is facing myriads of issues, and as such, critics should focus on addressing them instead of talking about him.

The NDC presidential candidate was on the ballot in the 2023 elections but lost to President Bola Tinubu. While critics have claimed he is desperate for the number one seat in Nigeria, Obi’s vision is to see a better nation.

“I’ve always said, I’m not desperate to be Nigerian president. I’m desperate to see Nigeria work. So if it’s working, I’ll support whatever makes it work,” the NDC chieftain said.

“I want to see a country where, I keep saying it every day, a child of nobody can be somebody without knowing anybody; where we can put people out of poverty; where young ones will have the opportunity to live, get a job, be an entrepreneur, and participate in what young people do all over the world.”

He noted that seeing Nigeria better is beyond holding a position, maintaining that his drive for the presidency is to unite the country.

“I’m contesting because I believe that I will fix it. I will unite the country. I’m able to do it to show an example of what is possible,” Obi said.

The NDC flagbearer cited several humanitarian visits and interventions across northern Nigeria, saying he had consistently supported communities affected by conflict and natural disasters.