Looking to the future, Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, has urged Nigerians to aspire for a truly independent nation, free from state capture and an end to the unprecedented hardships and suffering in the country.
In a series of tweets posted on his verified account on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Obi made a heartfelt appeal to his compatriots. He wrote: “On this day, we must make a sincere commitment to building a nation that is truly independent from the current state capture that has kept it in check and made the people suffer.”
The former Anambra State governor added: “Anniversary celebrations, whether of an individual or a country, provide opportunities to reminisce, celebrate achievements, look to the future and express gratitude.”
“This is exactly what we are doing today as our dear country marks its independence anniversary – 64 years since Nigeria took charge of its destiny and began its journey towards development as an independent nation.”
“It is a day to thank God for richly providing us with all the natural, human and material resources to be a great nation.”
However, to me, this day should be a time of deep reflection for every Nigerian, especially for us, the leaders, whose acts and failings have contributed to the regression and obvious failure we are witnessing.”
“An unexamined life, it is said, is not worth living. We must therefore examine our lives in the light of our journey as a nation in the last six decades.”
“Have we lifted our people out of poverty, or have we plunged them deeper into it? Have we made education accessible to every Nigerian child, or have we created an army of over 18 million out-of-school children roaming the streets? Have we built a productive economy, or have we burdened ourselves with the worst debt burden in our national history? »
« By any measure of development, whether in critical sectors or in our overall progress, we are doing badly. We rank low on security and peace and are one of the most terrorized countries in the world. »
« We are also ranked among the most corrupt nations in the world and are notoriously known for our disregard for the rule of law. Our country continues to dance dangerously on the precipice. »
« Compared to countries that gained independence around the same time as ours, before and after us, Nigeria stands out as a failed nation that urgently needs to be saved from further deterioration. ».
“On this day, we must sincerely commit ourselves to building a nation that is truly independent from the current state capture that has kept it in failure and made the people suffer.”
“We must build a nation free from tribal divisions and religious disharmony. We must build a new and productive Nigeria that cares for the well-being of its people. It is this independence that we will celebrate as a nation, and it is possible.”
Peter Obi transcends political divides to offer a bold vision and call to action for a truly independent, prosperous and united Nigeria, free from the current inequalities and failures. His message resonates as a call for collective responsibility and commitment to building a better future for all Nigerians.