Don’t Ask Nigerians To Sacrifice Without Personal Sacrifices – Obi Tackles Tinubu Over Large Convoy

The Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, has voiced his disapproval of President Bola Tinubu following a viral video showing the extensive motorcade accompanying Tinubu’s arrival in Lagos from Europe. Obi’s comments come amidst widespread outrage among Nigerians over the large convoy during Tinubu’s recent visit to Lagos State.

Speaking at the burial ceremony of the late Dean Emeritus of the Church of Nigeria, the Most Reverend Maxwell Anikwenwa, Obi addressed the issue of leadership by example. He emphasized that leaders who advocate for sacrifices from their followers must lead by demonstrating those sacrifices themselves.

Obi stated that there is an urgent need to reduce the cost of governance, a position he has consistently held. Although he admitted to not having seen the viral video of the motorcade, he echoed the sentiments of many critics, describing it as absurd.

During his speech, Obi emphasized the importance of leaders aligning their behavior, character, and public conduct with societal expectations. He stressed that preaching sacrifice to the people while not making personal sacrifices is hypocritical. Leaders, according to Obi, must lead the way in sacrificing for the betterment of the nation, especially considering the current suffering experienced by the people.

Reflecting on the life of the late Archbishop Anikwenwa, Obi highlighted his contributions beyond his pastoral work, stating that he was a great Nigerian who advocated for good governance and a better Nigeria. Obi commended the large turnout at the burial ceremony, noting the significance of Anikwenwa’s impact.

The Obi-Datti media organization issued a statement signed by Diran Onifade, decrying the excessive and embarrassing display of power exhibited by a politician in the viral video. They emphasized that leaders must lead by example and align their behavior with societal expectations. The statement further emphasized the urgent need for leaders to make visible sacrifices in solidarity with the suffering Nigerian people.

Obi’s call for sacrifices by Nigerian leaders comes shortly after President Tinubu’s Democracy Day address on June 12, 2023. Tinubu had called on Nigerians to make further sacrifices following the removal of petrol subsidies by the federal government, which resulted in increased fuel costs and soaring prices of goods and services.