Labour Party presidential hopeful Peter Obi on Saturday counselled Anambra Governor Charles Soludo to temper his re-election triumph with grace and compassion, decrying the incumbent’s “bitter” mockery as unbecoming of leadership during a post-election spat that has reignited tensions in the southeastern state.
Speaking to journalists after the Nigerian Guild of Editors conference at the Naval Base, Obi congratulated Soludo on his November 8 landslide but lamented his choice to lash out at critics instead of expressing gratitude.
“I feel compelled to respond because if I do not, I will be accused of dodging the question,” Obi said, adding: “On an occasion meant to celebrate his certificate of return, instead of thanking Almighty God for granting him a second tenure — a moment to demonstrate love and magnanimity — he chose to show bitterness and resentment. It was deeply unfortunate.”
The former governor, who backed Labour’s candidate in the race, clarified his limited involvement: “I only attended three public events with the Labour Party candidate, strictly where I was invited. At none of these events did I mention anyone by name or meet with traditional rulers, market leaders, or any other group to discuss candidates. There was nothing I said to warrant controversy or speculation.”
Obi invoked a football analogy to frame his national stature: “In football terms, if gubernatorial candidates are in the first division, I am in the Champions League. I ran for Vice President in 2019 and for President in 2023, winning 11 states and Abuja. I play well at that level, and my record speaks for itself.”
He reflected on his legacy: “In both the old and new Anambra, only Jim Nwobodo and I became governors in our forties. I was the first to serve a second tenure.”
Concluding with a prayerful tone, Obi stated: “I have no personal issue with Governor Soludo. I pray that God grants him even greater heights, if that will inspire him to show humility, compassion, and a genuine concern for the people. We must recognise the mercies God grants us. Leadership is not about resentment or bitterness; it is about service, gratitude, and love for our people.”
The exchange follows Soludo’s certificate ceremony where he branded Obi a “frustrated politician without a club” and blamed him for education setbacks.
