Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has used Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day to call for a period of introspection and a commitment to building a new nation.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Obi acknowledged the nation’s rich history and natural resources, but expressed deep concern over its current state of decline as he criticized the government’s performance in key areas such as security, education, economy, and corruption, and urged Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable.
Obi emphasized the need for unity and a shared vision for a better Nigeria calling for an end to tribal disunity and religious disharmony, and urged the government to prioritize the well-being of its citizens.
The statement reads in full, “Anniversary celebrations, whether for an individual or a country, offer opportunities to reflect on memories, celebrate accomplishments, look toward the future, and express gratitude.
This is exactly what we are doing today as our dear nation marks its 64th independence anniversary.
It is now 64 years since Nigeria took charge of its destiny and embarked on the journey toward development as a sovereign nation.
Today is a day to appreciate God for abundantly blessing us with natural, human, and material resources to build a great nation.
However, for me, this should also be a day of sober reflection for every Nigerian, especially for us, the leaders, whose actions and inactions have contributed to the stagnation and glaring failures we are witnessing at present.
As the saying goes, an unexamined life is not worth living. We must, therefore, examine ourselves in the light of our nation’s journey over the past six decades.
Have we lifted our people out of poverty, or have we driven more into it? Have we made education accessible to every Nigerian child, or have we allowed an army of over 18 million out-of-school children to roam the streets? Have we built a productive economy, or have we created a nation with the worst debt profile in its history?
By every measure of development, from the critical areas to the smallest aspects, we are underperforming. We rank poorly in security and peacefulness, making us one of the most insecure nations globally.
We are also ranked among the most corrupt countries, and we are noted for our disregard for the rule of law.
Our nation continues its dangerous dance on the edge of a precipice.
When we compare ourselves to countries that gained independence around the same time—before or after us—Nigeria stands out as a nation in decline, urgently in need of rescue from further decay.
On this day, therefore, we must make a solemn commitment to build a nation that is truly independent from the state capture that has dragged it into failure and kept its people in suffering.
We must create a nation free from tribal disunity and religious disharmony.
We must build a New and Productive Nigeria that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.
That is the independence we should celebrate as a nation whose greatness remains POssible.”
Obi’s statement has resonated with many Nigerians who are frustrated with the country’s challenges. His call for a new Nigeria has sparked discussions about the need for political, economic, and social reforms.