Senate President Godswill Akpabio responded to Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s recent comment that “the labour of our heroes past is all in vain,” advising him to first resolve internal issues within his small party. Akpabio made this remark during a tribute to the late Chief Edwin Clark, asserting that if Obi cannot fix his party’s crises, he lacks the moral authority to lead Nigeria.
During a memorial lecture for Chief Clark in Abuja, Peter Obi praised Clark’s courage and sacrifice, while expressing concern about Nigeria’s current state. He lamented that the sacrifices of past leaders like General Gowon and President Jonathan seem to have been in vain, noting the lack of protests over recent fuel price hikes—unlike the widespread protests during Jonathan’s era. Obi also criticized the government, asserting that Nigeria lacks true democracy and condemning claims that his criticisms amount to “demonizing” the country.
Senate President Akpabio responded to Peter Obi’s comments by questioning how he can address Nigeria’s major issues, like Boko Haram, if he cannot resolve internal crises within his Labour Party. He urged aspiring leaders to first fix their party problems. Akpabio also highlighted his achievements as a former governor, including infrastructure, healthcare, free education, and efforts promoting religious unity. He warned that social media, while useful, is often unregulated and divisive. Ultimately, he emphasized that Obi and other candidates should prioritize resolving their party conflicts before focusing on national leadership.