Do Not Mistake My Meekness For Weakness, I Stay Focused And Respectful, Says Obi

Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election, has stated that despite some people’s perceptions of him as weak, he remains focused and respectful.

Obi spoke in Awka over the weekend during the installation of Prof. Kemdilim Nonyelu as the 8th District Governor of Rotary International, District 9142, when confronted with an allegation made by his former ardent supporter, Mr. Kenneth Okonkwo, who accused him of being weak in controlling the Labour Party, among other issues.

Obi acknowledged that he has been viewed as weak since the beginning of his political career, but that this does not deter him because he is committed to staying focused, respecting others, and remaining undistracted as long as he believes he is on the right track.

“I have never engaged in the politics of ‘tigbue zogbue’ (violence), and I will not start now,” he stated.

Obi cautioned Nigerians against attempting to influence or dictate what the youth should do during the upcoming demonstration against hardship and bad governance.

He denied ever contemplating or sponsoring such an action, let alone carrying it out.

The protest is primarily motivated by hunger, unemployment, inflation, corruption, poverty, looting, and lack of accountability, according to the speaker.

He cautioned that, while young people should be free to express themselves and pursue their dreams, their actions must be legal.

He urged them to keep their activities peaceful and organised, emphasising the importance of constructive engagement in effecting meaningful change. Obi emphasised the importance of youth education about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, and encouraged them to use constitutional means to express their concerns.

He also urged older generations and leaders to listen to and support the youth’s efforts, noting that poor leadership frequently affects young people the most.

Obi argued that respecting youth autonomy and giving them opportunities to lead and contribute is critical to the country’s development, innovation, and progress.