Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has rejected accusations of de-marketing Nigeria, asserting that speaking the truth about the country’s challenges is crucial for national development.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Obi explained that his comments on Nigeria’s economic and political realities are intended to strengthen the nation’s image rather than harm it.
Although he did not directly name anyone, his remarks follow recent criticism from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who accused him of portraying Nigeria negatively abroad.
“I tried to remind those who claim that I am de-marketing Nigeria by speaking the truth about its economic and social status compared to the rest of the world that truth does not diminish a nation,” Obi stated. “Instead, it refines and strengthens it. But when we begin to weaponize the truth for political gain, we dishonor the legacy of those who came before us, betraying their sacrifices, struggles, hopes, and dreams.”
Obi made these remarks after attending a memorial lecture in honor of elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark, alongside former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Head of State Yakubu Gowon.
During his speech, he questioned the silence of once-vocal critics who protested against fuel and food price hikes under Jonathan’s administration, noting that the situation has worsened today.
“I posed some critical, reflective questions: What happened to the protesting voices in this country? Where are those who, in 2012/13, vigorously protested when fuel, exchange rate, food, and transport prices were relatively moderate under President Jonathan?” he asked.
Peter Obi has questioned the silence of those who previously criticized President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, labeling it as “clueless, corrupt, ineffective, and lifeless.” He asked, “Where are they now that the prices of everything have increased tenfold?”
Obi also expressed concern over Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, widespread poverty, and deteriorating institutions.
“We are losing innocent lives daily to insecurity, poverty, poor healthcare, and avoidable hardship. This is not the Nigeria our founding heroes envisioned,” he said. “We must not reduce their sacrifices to mere ceremonial tributes. The best way to honour Chief Edwin Clark and others like him is to restore integrity in governance, rebuild trust in our public institutions, and ensure that truth and justice are the foundations of our national journey.”
Obi emphasized that Nigeria must work for all citizens, not just a privileged few.
His comments come in response to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who accused Obi of making “disparaging” remarks about Nigeria during a recent event at Johns Hopkins University in the United States. Sanwo-Olu argued that prominent Nigerians traveling abroad should promote the country’s image rather than damage it, especially before an international audience.