Obi Urges Soludo to Lead With Humility, Says Leadership Requires Grace

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has advised Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, to embrace humility, compassion, and a sense of higher responsibility in his leadership. Obi spoke at the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ meeting in Abuja, emphasising that true leadership is accountable not only to the people but also to God.

His comments followed Soludo’s certificate-of-return ceremony, where the governor reportedly mocked critics and described Obi as “a frustrated politician without a club,” while also blaming him for challenges in the state’s education sector.

Obi, however, chose a conciliatory tone, expressing disappointment rather than anger.
“I was surprised by Governor Soludo’s remarks,” he said. “This was a moment for gratitude and magnanimity, but instead bitterness and resentment were displayed. It was deeply unfortunate.”

Obi clarified that his involvement in the recent Anambra governorship election was limited. He attended only three public events to which he was formally invited.
“I did not endorse any candidate, hold secret meetings, or engage in political manoeuvres,” he said. “There was nothing I did that should warrant controversy.”

He also recounted witnessing disruptions in his community on Election Day. According to him, he intervened peacefully when outsiders attempted to vote illegally.
“Leadership is shown in difficult moments, through fairness, courage, and respect for people’s dignity,” Obi stated.

Drawing a contrast between his political journey and the current contest, Obi remarked that he sees himself operating at a different level.
“If gubernatorial candidates are playing in the first division, I play in the Champions League,” he said. “I ran for Vice President in 2019 and for President in 2023, winning 11 states and the FCT. My record speaks for itself.”

Reflecting on his time as governor, Obi noted that he and Jim Nwobodo were the only ones to assume the office in their forties.
“I served a second tenure with honour,” he said. “I have no personal issue with Governor Soludo. I pray he achieves even greater heights, if such success brings humility, compassion, and true service to the people.”

Obi concluded by stressing that leadership must be anchored in gratitude and responsibility.
“We must acknowledge the mercies granted to us,” he said. “Leadership is not about bitterness or resentment; it is about service, gratitude, and love for our people.”

His message stands out amid an increasingly tense political atmosphere, offering a call for restraint, dignity, and character in public service.