Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, has stated unequivocally that he is not interested in any coalition aimed solely at grabbing power without prioritizing the well-being of Nigerians.
Speaking on Monday in Abuja during a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, Obi emphasized the urgent need to address the suffering of Nigerians, citing the country’s alarming poverty levels. The event, themed ‘Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity,’ was organized by notable groups, including the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster for Democracy (WfD), Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee.
Addressing journalists on the sidelines of the conference, Obi expressed concerns over the focus of proposed political coalitions. “For me, what is important is let’s discuss Nigeria. Whether we are going to do a coalition, let’s talk about the future of the country,” he said.
He criticized the power-centric nature of Nigerian politics, stressing that the nation’s priorities should center on securing its citizens, improving access to education, and alleviating poverty. “It is about discussing Nigeria. How do we care about securing Nigerians? How do we care about the common person in Nigeria? How do we care about our children being in school? That is the most important thing for now,” Obi asserted.
The Labour Party chieftain also decried the monetization of politics, highlighting its role in perpetuating corruption. He argued that the financial influence in elections promotes public fund embezzlement, as candidates often exploit stolen resources to gain immunity from prosecution once in power.
“That’s what we need to remove because what you’re doing is that you’re encouraging stealing of public money. If I steal it and use it to win an election, then I get all the power and everything, including immunity not to be prosecuted. So we must stop it. That is what is driving the stealing,” Obi explained.
The former Anambra State governor’s stance underscores a call for a values-based approach to governance, one that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of ordinary Nigerians over political ambition.