…Obi urged his supporters to avoid violence, insults, and verbal attacks on political opponents,
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has described himself as better prepared to tackle Nigeria’s economic and security challenges if given the opportunity.
Peter Obi said none of those seeking to contest the 2027 presidential election can claim to have started, managed, and grown a small business into a large corporation the way he has.
The former Anambra State governor made the remarks while responding to questions from Nigerians during an interactive X Space engagement on Tuesday.
Obi explained that addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges would significantly improve the country’s security situation, noting that both issues are closely connected.
“I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from the ground up and have more experience than any of the candidates, including the sitting President. I am a finance person and I understand how to manage resources,” he said.
He added that under his leadership, small businesses and manufacturers would flourish, as he would prioritise their growth, describing them as the backbone of thriving economies worldwide.
Obi also dismissed speculation that he was joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition as a vice-presidential candidate, declaring firmly that he would be on the ballot in the 2027 elections.
Obi urged his supporters to avoid violence, insults, and verbal attacks on political opponents, even when provoked. The appeal came in response to a question from an “Obidient” in Akwa Ibom State who complained about insults directed at Obi by some leaders of the ADC coalition.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate clarified that he supports the coalition, having been part of it since its early days, but stressed the need for cooperation and mutual respect.
“None of us can predict tomorrow. We must engage in the coalition with an open mind. Nigeria’s problems cannot be solved through intimidation but by putting the right people in charge,” he said, adding that collaboration within the coalition would continue.
Obi maintained that personal attacks would not deter him from offering himself for service, saying, “The insults do not bother me. If calling me stupid or an idiot will solve Nigeria’s problems, I am ready to go to court and change my name to ‘Obi Stupid.’”
He further advised his supporters to counter misinformation with facts, pray for those who insult them, and engage opponents through constructive and respectful debate.
