The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has emphasized that leaders who advocate for sacrifice in the pursuit of a better Nigeria must demonstrate this sacrifice through their own actions.
Obi made this statement during the burial Mass of the late Dean Emeritus of the Church of Nigeria, the Most Reverend Maxwell Anikwenwa, at the St Faith Cathedral, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Awka. Reacting to a question about the viral video of President Bola Tinubu’s long convoy in Lagos, Obi stressed the urgent need to cut down on the cost of governance, a position he has consistently held.
While acknowledging that he had not personally seen the video in question, Obi firmly stated, “The present Nigeria requires that all those who serve and lead must do so by example. The behavior, character, and public conduct of those in positions of leadership must align with the expectations of society. It is not enough for leaders to preach sacrifice; they must also embody it.”
Continuing, Obi asserted, “Sacrifice must commence with the leaders, visibly and measurably, at all times. This is because the people are suffering, and we, as leaders, must be at the forefront of their suffering.”
Reflecting on the life of the late Archbishop Anikwenwa, Obi described him as not only a pastor but also a notable Nigerian who made significant contributions to the nation. He commended the late Archbishop for his advocacy for good governance and a better Nigeria, stating that he was not surprised by the large turnout at the burial ceremony.
Prominent figures such as Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, his deputy, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, Senator Victor Umeh, and Archbishop Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Dr Chibuzo Ibezim, paid tribute to the late Anikwenwa during the ceremony.
In his tribute, Archbishop Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, Most Reverend Dr Henry Ndukuba, lauded the late Archbishop for his commitment to Christ, describing him as a repository of knowledge and church history.
“Baba lived a great life,” Archbishop Ndukuba emphasized, mentioning that Anikwenwa’s passing is not only a loss to the diocese but to the entire church and the country, given his distinguished contributions and recognition by the nation.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges and calls for responsible leadership, Peter Obi’s remarks highlight a crucial aspect of governance — the need for leaders to lead by example and prioritize the welfare of the people they serve. Now, it remains to be seen if these words will resonate among the broader political class and translate into tangible change for the Nigerian population.
