“Nigeria a difficult place for good people to govern” – Peter Obi

Peter Obi, 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has described Nigeria as a difficult place for good people who are committed to doing the right thing to govern.

Speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Umuahia to mark the two-year anniversary of Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Obi urged Nigerians to keep their leaders in prayer—especially those striving to lead with integrity.

“It is difficult to govern Nigeria, especially when you want to do it right,” Obi said. “Continue to remember the Governor and his team in prayers. Do the same for Nigeria; that God should touch the hearts of our leaders to use public money for public good. It is not our money—we are only trustees.”

Obi praised Governor Otti’s performance in office, calling it a clear break from business as usual.

He noted that true change doesn’t always take years—it only takes sincerity and commitment.

“We have come to celebrate two years with a difference. People always say they need eight or ten years to make a change, but I have always said that one day can make a difference. In Abia, everyone can see the change—you don’t need the radio or someone to tell you,” he added.

Reaffirming his passion for Nigeria’s progress, Obi said:

“I’m not desperate to be President. I’m desperate to see Nigeria work. We want future leaders like Governor Otti.”

In his own remarks, Governor Otti credited the success of his administration to divine grace.

Quoting 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, he said:

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God gave the increase. We’ve all worked hard, but nothing would have come out of it if God didn’t back us. That’s why we return all thanks to Him.”

Otti acknowledged the support of the legislative and judicial arms of government, as well as his team, describing their efforts as key to the success of “the new Abia project.”

He also thanked Obi for his unwavering support, calling him “a shining example of good governance.”

The thanksgiving service was attended by government officials, political leaders, clergy, and citizens from across Abia State.