- Peter Obi says Soludo’s remarks were driven by resentment, not leadership.
- Obi explains he played no role in the election controversy and attended only invited events.
- He recounts election-day tension in his community and says he chose calm over conflict.
- Obi urges Soludo to prioritise humility, compassion and service to the people.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has appealed to Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, to adopt a more measured and compassionate approach to leadership, saying the tone displayed during his certificate-of-return ceremony did not reflect the dignity of the office he occupies. At a meeting with the Nigerian Guild of Editors in Abuja, Obi said he expected words of thanksgiving and unity from the governor, not mockery or bitterness.
He reacted to Soludo’s recent comments where the governor reportedly described him as “a frustrated politician without a club” and accused him of contributing to problems in the state’s education sector. Obi said the remarks were unnecessary and out of place at a moment meant for gratitude. According to him, leadership carries a sacred obligation to the people and to God, and bitterness diminishes that calling.
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Obi explained that he kept a low profile during the Anambra governorship election, insisting he attended only three public events where he was formally invited. He said he held no meetings with monarchs, endorsed no candidate and avoided any action that could spark controversy. “There was nothing I did that should have caused speculation or misunderstanding,” he said.
He reflected on Election Day in his community, recalling an incident where unfamiliar individuals tried to vote, something that could easily have triggered violence. Obi said he chose restraint and encouraged residents to stay calm. For him, true leadership reveals itself in such moments, when emotions run high and the choice between chaos and responsibility rests on a leader’s words.
The former governor also compared his political journey to the present dynamics in Anambra State, noting that he had contested national positions and won across several states. He said that while others debate local contests, he has competed at higher levels and has no interest in petty political exchanges.
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Obi added that he holds no personal grievance against Soludo and genuinely hopes he excels in office. He said his only wish is that the governor’s success is accompanied by humility, compassion and a sincere commitment to the people of Anambra. “Leadership should never be driven by resentment; it should be rooted in service and gratitude,” he said.
Obi concluded by urging Nigerian leaders to recognise the responsibility that comes with power, arguing that public office is not an avenue for settling personal scores but an opportunity to uplift communities.
