Peter Obi: Nigerians Must Pray for Politicians to Cease Corruption

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming 2027 general election, recently asserted that political leaders are the primary obstacle hindering Nigeria's progress. He made this declaration during a religious gathering held in Abuja over the past weekend.

The former governor of Anambra State addressed the congregants, emphasizing the critical need for divine intervention in the conduct of politicians. “I don’t know what to say, but people are here for different reasons. We are all here for prayers, but pray for us politicians to stop stealing. Politicians are the problem of the country. There is nothing wrong with the country, but the politicians are the issue,” Obi stated, reiterating his point.

He further implored the attendees to extend their prayers to political officeholders, expressing a desire for God to inspire them to abandon corrupt practices. “Pray for us politicians. Let God touch us to cease stealing. Do not say one is good and another is bad. We (politicians) are the problem of the country,” he added.

Obi also reflected on the development trajectories of other nations that began their journeys at a similar time to Nigeria but have since surpassed it. He encouraged Nigerians to consult the book “Growing Apart” as a resource for understanding these disparities, noting that he has personally witnessed the success achieved in other countries. “I’ve seen things work in other countries. People should refrain from embezzling public funds. If we do the right thing, things will improve,” Obi concluded, highlighting his belief that adherence to ethical practices would lead to national improvement.