In a candid interview with Arise TV’s Rufai Oseni monitored by Headlineswa.ng , former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, defended his legacy and addressed criticisms regarding his tenure.
On Labour Party Crisis and Leadership Strength
On his perceived inability to resolve internal Labour Party disputes, especially comments suggesting he is too “weak” to lead. He dismissed the notion, stating that Nigeria is a country of propaganda and name-calling. He said inter alia “…I’m not weak. I have built businesses, banks, governed a complex state like Anambra state, becoming the first governor to have a second term in office and tackled enormous challenges. Humility and patience are virtues—not weaknesses…”
Referring directly to a question by Rufai over comments by his former party spokesperson Kenneth Okonkwo, who criticized him for being weak, Obi remarked: “If he said I’m weak, he knows why. I can’t respond to everyone. Even within the Obidient movement, there are Judases.”
He also pointed to the recent spat between the Labour Party chairman and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, where the chairman allegedly referred to the governor as having a “dwarf mentality.” Obi asked pointedly, “Is he also weak?” Obi pointedly said that the crises in the Labour party is instigated by the ruling party. In his words ” This is what you get always, right? . This is what you get always in Nigeria. because we now live in a country of propaganda and lies – and they manufacture it”
He continued: “The problem we have in Labour Party is problem instigated by the government of today”
“You speak the truth they call you names. And we live in a country of propaganda and lies. they are trying t put problems everywhere, they even want to put problems in families” he reiterated
Reacting to issues regarding his stewardship as Anambra state governor especially the claims that investing in a brewery during his time as governor was a misplaced priority, Obi stated that the brewery has become the biggest revenue earner in Anambra State, employing over 500 locals. “The facts speak for themselves,” he said. “That brewery is now one of the most impactful investments for the state’s economy.” There is a brewery in Ogun state doing well. Has the people come out to say, its a bad investment, he asked
On allegations that he impoverished the state, Obi cited a UNDP report which noted that Anambra was lifted out of poverty under his administration. “The data is there. Anyone can verify it,” he added.
On Infrastructure and Education Milestones
Highlighting achievements in governance, Obi noted that Anambra received national recognition for infrastructure development during his administration. “The Federal Ministry of Works rated us as the best in infrastructure building,” he said.
He also spoke of personal sacrifices, revealing that he operated from Onitsha without a Governor’s Lodge or official residence, as critical government infrastructure had been destroyed before his assumption of office.
In education, Obi said his reforms propelled Anambra to the number one spot in Nigeria, praising the collaborative efforts with churches and stakeholders that understood the need to revamped public schools.
On Fiscal Prudence and Legacy
The former governor reiterated his well-publicized claim of leaving substantial funds in state coffers, asserting that:
No contractor or supplier who completed their work was owed.
There were no unpaid pensions or salaries.
Funds were available to pay three months’ salaries after he left office.
“I left money in the banks, and those banks are still there. The documents exist. So why would anyone claim I left nothing?” Obi asked.
On commitment to Public Service
Obi emphasized that he takes no pension or government benefit from Anambra State government and expects none.
“Of all the people aspiring to be President of Nigeria, none has the kind of background, experience, and proven capacity that I have. I served Anambra without burdening the state, and I continue to do the same,” he said.
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