Stop Honouring Corrupt Leaders, Peter Obi Tells Nigerians

Presidential front-runner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to stop celebrating individuals accused of looting public funds if the country must overcome poverty.

Obi made the call yesterday in Abuja  while receiving members of the Association of Skilled and Vocational Artisans of Nigeria (ASVAN), led by its National President, Obijuru Everest, during a courtesy visit.

He lamented that despite Nigeria’s vast natural and human resources, more than half of the country’s population still lives below the poverty line, attributing the situation to poor leadership choices and tolerance for corruption.

“We are poor because we have chosen to be poor. We give titles and front-row seats of honour to those who steal public funds, and yet we expect to grow,” Obi said.

The former governor of Anambra State recalled a conversation he had with political leaders in Indonesia, noting that the Asian country, which is similar to Nigeria in population and size, has made significant progress due to responsible leadership and investment in human capital.

According to him, Indonesian leaders advised that tackling corruption, investing heavily in education and healthcare, and empowering citizens would lead to economic growth.

Obi emphasised that in thriving economies, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a key role in driving development, supported by governments that provide an enabling and corruption-free environment.

He urged Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process to ensure credible leadership.

“Join the fight for a great Nigeria. Stop worshipping those who steal your money, stop giving them titles, and stand up for what is right. Vote, defend your votes, and help produce good leaders at all levels, from councillor to president, and you will see the country change,” he said.

Earlier, Everest said the association had been following Obi’s political journey and believed it was important to align with leaders who share their vision for national development.

He noted that artisans remain critical to Nigeria’s economy but have continued to face challenges due to lack of adequate government support and a conducive operating environment.

Everest disclosed that ASVAN, which has coordinators in all 36 states of the federation and over two million members, is advocating for a bill before the National Assembly to formally recognise and regulate the artisan sector.

He added that the association had also developed a blueprint for a world-class artisan workshop village that would enable artisans to produce high-quality finished products and compete favourably with their counterparts in other countries.

According to him, the group has been engaging government authorities for land allocation for the project over the past three years but is yet to receive approval.

Everest expressed optimism that with proper recognition and support, Nigeria’s artisan sector could significantly contribute to national economic growth.