By Kamsi Anayo
2023 Presidential candidate for Labour party, Me Peter Obi responds to Ukraine’s generous donation of 25,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Nigeria.
He criticized the Nigerian government and expressed dismay that a war-torn country was providing aid to Nigeria, emphasizing the need for sound political leadership and attributing the national disgrace to years of leadership failure.
He also acknowledged Ukraine’s act of solidarity but underscored the urgency for Nigeria to prioritize resource management, invest in agriculture, address insecurity, and strive for a productive and improved future.
Obi in a series of posts on his X handle said, “Let me begin by sincerely appreciating the war-torn nation of Ukraine for their generous donation of tons of grains to Nigeria thereby aiding our current fight against nationwide hunger.
“As laudable as Ukraine’s kind gesture is, it speaks volumes for us as a people endowed with all needed human and natural resources, that a country officially prosecuting a brutal war of national survival with its powerful neighbor, Russia, is generous and kind enough with their food supplies to help us who are officially at peace.
“For the people of Ukraine, this act of human solidarity testifies to a rare generosity of spirit which should earn them greater global solidarity. It demonstrates our shared humanity.
“However, a situation like this underscores vigorously the importance of sound political leadership as the first concrete requirement for any nation desiring to develop and enhance the standard of living of its citizenry.
“It is disheartening that our once economically confident nation, blessed with vast arable land and abundant natural resources, now relies on a war-torn Ukraine for food assistance.
“Addressing insecurity is crucial for farmers to return to their fields, enabling a productive manufacturing sector and supporting small businesses.
“In 4 to 5 years, this concerted effort can reverse the current trend, leading us toward a productive and New Nigeria that I believe is possible and within reach.”