Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi on Thursday formally declared his intention to contest for the seat of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, during the 2023 General Elections.
The former Governor made the declaration today in Awka, during his meeting with traditional rulers and Presidents-General of all the communities at the State Government House, Awka.
Obi had earlier this year, insisted he will only contest the seat if the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, zones the presidential ticket to the South.
However, while addressing the Anambra Monarchs traditional rulers and Presidents-General, Obi said he has been inundated with calls to join the race and having consulted wide across Nigeria, it has become clear that he submits himself to serve the nation.
According to him, he has seen the massive support from the people of Nigeria, as well as heard the cries of the teeming young people, beckoning on him to run.
Obi said he took the decision, with the belief that he has an idea as to how to assemble a team that will turn around the fortunes of the country.
“Nigeria is presently at a crossroads and its unity is seriously being threatened by the strife and insecurity everywhere.
“I will lead a purposeful Government that will unite Nigerians and create trust again among its people,” he said.
The two-time Anambra Governor said he will invest in critical areas of development including education, health and pulling people out of poverty.
He promised to deliver Nigerian youths out of poverty through creative ventures in partnership with the private sector, assuring that his developmental efforts will have measurable outcomes.
On the issue of corruption, Obi said Nigeria’s inability to address the issue is because the leaders are complicit.
“Corruption can be reduced by 70 percent, if the leaders are not corrupt.
“If I become President, Nigerians will begin to see genuine leadership.
“I will respect every Nigeria and live within the law.
“I strongly believe in the Nigerian project and will work to guarantee security across all parts of the country.
“I have, as a private person, created and managed wealth.
“I have also done it in public life.
“So I believe I am most qualified to run,” Obi enthused.
On why he was at the declaration on Wednesday of fellow aspirant, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Obi explained that he sees politics as relationship and not war.
“Atiku is a boss and friend.
“What I did was to show him solidarity at his declaration.
“It doesn’t in any way, preclude me from pursuing the same aspiration.
