Peter Obi defends truthful critique, counters Sanwo-Olu’s de-marketing claims

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi dismisses criticism that he de-markets Nigeria, asserting that truthful discourse about the country’s challenges is vital for national progress

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, has rejected recent accusations that he is de-marketing Nigeria, emphasizing that honest discussions about the nation’s challenges are crucial for its development.

Also read: Reno Omokri challenges Peter Obi’s silence on Sanwo-Olu’s criticisms

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Obi clarified that his comments concerning Nigeria’s economic and political realities are intended to strengthen, not tarnish, the country’s reputation.

Obi’s remarks come a week after Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu publicly criticized him for making “disparaging” comments about Nigeria during a recent appearance at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.

Sanwo-Olu argued that prominent Nigerians should promote the country’s image abroad rather than de-market it.

Responding to these criticisms, Obi stated, “I tried reminding those who argue that I de-marketed Nigeria by telling the truth about its economic and social status vis-à-vis the rest of the World that truth does not in any way demarket a nation.”

He further emphasized, “Rather, it refines and strengthens it. But the moment we begin to weaponise the truth for political convenience, we dishonour the legacy of those who came before us. We betray the very essence of their sacrifices, their struggles, their hopes, and their dreams.”

“I tried reminding those who argue that I de-marketed Nigeria by telling the truth about its economic and social status vis-à-vis the rest of the World that truth does not in any way demarket a nation,” Peter Obi stated.

Obi made these remarks after attending a memorial lecture in honor of elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark, alongside former President Goodluck Jonathan and ex-Head of State Yakubu Gowon.

During his address at the lecture, Obi questioned the silence of previously vocal critics who had protested fuel and food price hikes under former President Jonathan, noting that the current situation has significantly worsened.

“I asked some very vital rhetorical and reflective questions, like what has suddenly happened to the protesting voices in this country, where are those who, in 2012/13, protested vigorously when increases in fuel, exchange rate, food and transport prices were moderate and manageable under President Jonathan?” Obi questioned.

Also read: Sanwo-Olu blasts Peter Obi over “Unpatriotic” remarks at Johns Hopkins University

He also decried Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, poverty, and institutional decay, stating, “We are also losing innocent lives daily through insecurity, poverty, poor healthcare, and avoidable hardship. This is not the Nigeria our founding heroes envisioned.”