Mr. Peter Obi, a presidential aspirant from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former governor of Anambra State, has given a bleak image of Nigeria’s position, warning that the country is on the verge of collapse, but insisting that if elected, he has what it takes to turn things around.
Obi, who spoke to Anambra delegates and other stakeholders in Awka as part of his ongoing engagements across the country ahead of the PDP presidential primary, expressed disappointment that Nigerians had prioritised sharing over production.
“Despite her great economic potentials, JP Morgan, an international organisation, has concluded that Nigeria is no longer an investment destination,” he remarked. Nigeria is on its way down, and my job is to keep the delegates toasty while they make their primary choices.
“I am dedicated to this cause, and I am confident that I have what it takes to turn the country around.”
I’ve travelled throughout the country and discovered that the people are in excruciating pain. If I am elected president, we will place a greater emphasis on the production formula rather than the current sharing formula. We do nothing but share in this country, with little emphasis on manufacturing.
“I am optimistic that the country can be fixed, but it will take someone like me to do so.” No one is better equipped and qualified than me among all those hoping to run for office in both parties.”
He reminded the stakeholders that Anambra is a PDP state, and that the state must take its proper place within the party, notwithstanding the state branch’s current issues.
He reminded them, “My argument is that we should go to the primaries as a family because all eyes would be on Anambra delegates.”
He also urged the delegates to welcome all of the candidates who are going to campaign in the state, saying that they are all out shopping and that he has no enemies.
Also speaking at the event, Chief Doyin Okupe, the director general of his campaign group, said it would be sheer wickedness to deny Igbos the presidency in 2023, noting that Nigeria would be fortunate to have Peter Obi as president.
Many prominent Yoruba people, he claims, share his viewpoint and are working hard to ensure that an Igbo man becomes the next president.
“Those parading themselves in Yoruba country should understand the notion of equity,” he continued. I recall that in what was deemed Nigeria’s most free election, the Igbo people overwhelmingly voted for MKO Abiola.
“Although I am very competent, I am unable to run since I am aware that it is Igbo’s turn and that Peter Obi is better equipped to fill the position.”
“Among those arriving from the East, Peter is the best, and he is superior to all others vying to be president.”
“This man has travelled the globe in search of knowledge, and he is the most qualified person to govern this country.”
Following the meeting, the Anambra delegates voted a resolution urging other Igbo presidential candidates to withdraw in favour of Obi, so that the South East could go to the primaries as an unified front and show their best.
Chuba Oranusi, a former member of the State House of Assembly, proposed the motion.
