“Any Country Where Government Officials Are Richer Than Business People Is Unproductive” – Peter Obi
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has issued a powerful call for Nigerians to reclaim their country, lamenting how many have been turned into refugees within their own land. Speaking during the presentation of the book Obi, the Political Change Agent in Abuja on Tuesday, Obi urged citizens to rise and transform a political system that he says no longer serves the people.
Highlighting the severe challenges facing Nigeria—rising insecurity, poverty, theft, and lack of accountability—Obi painted a grim picture of a country trapped under an unproductive system. “Any country where those in government are richer than business people is an unproductive country,” he stated, adding that Nigeria has raised “masters” who have allowed vital infrastructure like rail lines, built by colonial predecessors, to crumble.
To rebuild, Obi stressed the need for sacrifice and collective effort. He revealed that the Obidient Movement, which he leads, will seek out genuine patriots willing to fix Nigeria’s deep-rooted problems at every level of society.
Obi’s remarks come amid criticism of some federal lawmakers initially elected under the Labour Party who are accused of abandoning their core opposition roles.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Obi emphasized the need for transparency and warned against any attempts to undermine the democratic process. “We will make the election count. And those who don’t want it to count, we’ll count them,” he declared.
In an earlier welcome address, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, described the movement as more than just a political campaign. “It is a social-ideological force focused on realigning governance toward the people and delivering democracy’s true dividends,” he said.
Yunusa emphasized Nigeria’s crossroads moment: “The old ways have failed us, and the status quo is no longer tenable. But amidst challenges lie opportunities for growth, innovation, and progress.”
The Obidient Movement, under Peter Obi’s leadership, represents a call to action, resilience, and hope for a better Nigeria—a nation where everyone can thrive with dignity and justice.
Highlighting the movement’s impressive growth, Yunusa revealed it already spans 28 states and 540 local government areas, with more to be announced soon.
Senator Nenadi Usman, Acting Chairman of the Labour Party, praised Obi as a generation’s voice of accountability, principle, and prudence. She said, “This book tells a story beyond politics—of fighting impunity, extravagance, and recklessness with simplicity and integrity.”
As Nigerians look to 2027, Peter Obi and the Obidient Movement vow to champion a new vision of governance, one rooted in honesty, service, and hope for a prosperous future.
