The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr Peter Obi, has said he is more prepared to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges if given the opportunity.
He noted that none of the aspirants eyeing the 2027 presidential election can claim to have started a small business and successfully grown it into a large corporation in the way he has.
Obi made the remarks while responding to questions from Nigerians during an interactive X Space session held yesterday.
He explained that resolving Nigeria’s economic problems would significantly improve the country’s security situation, stressing that both issues are closely connected.
The former Anambra State governor said: “I know how to turn Nigeria around. I built my business from scratch and have more experience than any candidate, including the sitting President. I’m a finance person. I know how to manage finance.”
He added that under his leadership, small businesses and manufacturers would flourish, as his administration would prioritise their growth, describing them as the backbone of economies in developed nations.
The former LP flagbearer also dismissed rumours that he was joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition as a vice-presidential candidate.
He stated clearly that, “I will be on the ballot in 2027.”
Obi further urged his supporters to avoid violence and refrain from exchanging insults with political opponents, even when provoked.
He made the appeal while responding to concerns raised by an “Obidient” from Akwa Ibom State, who complained about insults and name-calling directed at him by some leaders of the ADC coalition.
Obi told listeners that he supports the coalition, noting that he has been involved since its early stages.
He said: “None of us can predict tomorrow. Let us enter the coalition with an open mind. We can’t solve the problems of Nigeria by bullying. We can solve it with putting the right people to manage our affairs.
“Tomorrow is dynamic, we are going to work with other people in the coalition.”
Emphasising that personal attacks would not deter him from offering himself for service, Obi said: “All the insults do not bother me. If calling me stupid or idiot will solve Nigeria’s problems, I’m ready to go to court and change my name to ‘Obi Stupid.”
He also advised his supporters to respond to misinformation with facts and to “pray for those who abuse us. Engage our opponents in healthy debates and help them understand our position.”