Taiwo Niyi
Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians not to dictate to the youth.
Obi made these remarks during the installation ceremony of Rtn. Au. Nkemdili Nnonyelu as the 8th District Governor of Rotary International, District 9142, held at the Awka International Conference Centre over the weekend.
Addressing allegations of sponsoring protests, Obi denied any involvement, humorously attributing the unrest to figures like Mr. Hunger, Mr. Unemployment, Mr. Inflation, Mr. Corruption, Mr. Poverty, Mr. Looting, and Mr. Unaccountability.
Obi emphasized that while the youth should freely express their views and pursue their goals, they must do so within the law.
He encouraged peaceful and organized actions, stressing the importance of constructive engagement for meaningful change.
Obi advised the youth to be well-informed about their rights and responsibilities, advocating for constitutional means to voice their concerns.
He also called on older generations and leaders to listen to and support the youth, noting that they are often the most affected by poor leadership.
Respecting the youth’s autonomy and providing them with opportunities to lead and contribute are crucial for national development, innovation, and progress, he argued.
Responding to Mr. Kenneth Okonkwo’s comments on his perceived weakness in controlling the Labour Party, Obi acknowledged being viewed as weak since the start of his political journey.
He stated that such perceptions do not deter him, as he remains focused on his goals. “I have never engaged in the politics of ‘tigbue zogbue’, and I will not start now,” Obi concluded.