The leader of the Labour Party and its presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, urged the Nigerian Guild of Editors to critically examine the reasons behind the label of Nigeria as “a disgraced country.”
In an address to the editors in Abuja on Thursday, themed “Reclaiming Our Nation’s Dignity: A Call to Conscience,” Obi emphasised that editors, as key figures who drive the narrative and shape the future, should focus not just on whether acts of violence qualify as genocide, but rather on the existence of such killings and the underlying reasons behind them.
He stated, “If someone tags us as a disgraced country, we should ask ourselves whether there are issues within our society that warrant this disgrace.”
Obi acknowledged the media’s impact on his political career, saying he has benefited significantly from it, but he insisted that more effort is required to inspire the younger generation to embrace the values upheld by their elders.
He challenged the editors to address what he describes as executive recklessness, likening it to a situation where one feasts while asking others to fast.
While acknowledging that policies such as subsidy removal and currency unification can be beneficial, he criticised the current execution of these policies for being mishandled.
He reiterated that borrowing is not inherently negative, as even developed nations have debts, but questioned the intentions behind such borrowing, asking, “Are we borrowing to feast?”
In a post on his X handle, the former governor of Anambra stated, “Today in Abuja, I addressed the Nigerian Guild of Editors on the theme ‘Reclaiming Our Nation’s Dignity.’ I thanked them for their vital role in shaping the national conscience and reminded them that Nigeria stands at a moral and developmental crossroads. The responsibility before us is immense—to speak truth, guide reflection, and inspire hope for a better nation.
“I told them that our country stands at a critical juncture. Just two weeks ago, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, described Nigeria as a ‘now disgraced country.’ He referred to the ongoing killings in our land, reflecting the sentiments expressed by many conscientious Nigerians for years, often at the cost of being accused of de-marketing their own country. The reality is alarming: Nigeria faces existential challenges that require our sober reflection.
“I reminded them that our disgrace as a nation does not stem from external opinions, but from the conditions we have allowed—killings, impunity, corruption, hunger, and the neglect of our people. Today, over 130 million Nigerians live in poverty, and more than 20 million children are out of school. These pressing issues should weigh heavily on our collective conscience.
“I emphasised that true redemption will not come from making excuses but will arise from truth, sacrifice, and leadership by example. Nigeria can rise again if we rebuild our moral foundation, invest in education and healthcare, and prioritise public service for the people rather than for privilege. It is through these values that we can restore our national dignity.
“I reminded them that editors are not merely recorders of history; they are the conscience of the nation. Their work in shaping truth, correcting distortions, and holding leaders accountable is crucial for rebuilding trust and dignity in our society.
“Finally, I told them that if we govern with transparency, accountability, and compassion, Nigeria will no longer be viewed as a disgraced nation but rather as a country of dignity—where people may falter but strive to stand tall. Together, we can and must reclaim our nation’s honour. A New Nigeria is Possible.”
