By Our Reporter
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged Governor Charles Soludo to embrace humility, gratitude, and compassion, following what he described as the governor’s “unfortunate and bitter” public outburst. Speaking with journalists at the recently concluded Guild of Editors Conference in Abuja, Obi congratulated Soludo on securing a second term in office and advised him to reflect God’s mercies with grace rather than resentment.
Obi’s remarks came in response to comments made by Soludo during his certificate-of-return ceremony, where the governor mocked his critics and described Obi as “a frustrated politician without a club,” while accusing him of damaging the education system in Anambra.
“I feel compelled to respond because if I do not, I will be accused of dodging the question,” Obi said, expressing disappointment at Soludo’s tone. “A moment meant for thanksgiving and celebration turned into one of bitterness and resentment. It was deeply unfortunate.”
Clarifying his involvement during the Anambra governorship election, Obi explained: “I only attended three public events with the Labour Party candidate, and only where I was invited. I never mentioned any individual by name, nor did I hold private meetings with traditional rulers, market leaders, or any group. I said nothing that warranted the controversy being circulated.”
Obi also shared his Election Day experience, noting that he quietly carried out his civic duties while observing several irregularities and disruptions. “When outsiders attempted to vote in our community, I intervened and urged our people to allow them act peacefully. In that moment, I was reminded that integrity must come before politics. True leadership is defined not by the struggle for power, but by fairness, restraint, and the protection of our people’s dignity—even under pressure.”
Responding to Soludo’s football analogy, Obi offered his own perspective: “Journalists questioned me as though I was on the ballot. I reminded them that I left office 13 years ago and have since moved to a higher level in national politics. If state-level candidates are in the first division, I am in the Champions League. I contested for Vice President in 2019 and President in 2023, winning 11 states and the FCT. I have played at that level, and my record speaks for itself.”
Obi also reflected on his age and achievements. “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. I hold no personal grievance