The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has defended his record as a former governor of Anambra State, saying he saved public funds while in office despite acknowledging that he was not perfect.
Obi made the remarks during a town hall meeting with his supporters in the United Kingdom, where he urged Nigerians to elect leaders with proven records of productivity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The former Anambra State governor also expressed concern over the economic hardship facing Nigerians, saying many people at home were struggling financially and relying on relatives abroad for assistance.
He urged Nigerians in the diaspora to encourage their family members to support leaders who could improve the country’s economic situation.
“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no! Let’s put somebody who has proven to be productive,” Obi said.
Defending his record in office, the NDC candidate said his administration had prioritised saving public funds, presenting the claim as evidence of his approach to governance.
“I’m not saying I’m a saint, but I saved money. No governor has done it. Let’s start with this one that is less corrupt. That’s how other countries change,” he said.
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Obi argued that Nigeria needed a change in leadership priorities, with greater emphasis on accountability, competence and the effective use of public resources.
He also called for a collective effort to build what he described as a “New Nigeria” that works for all citizens.
According to him, tackling corruption and electing leaders with the capacity and commitment to govern effectively should be central to the country’s development agenda.
“Enough of all these. We need to achieve our collective purpose of building a New Nigeria that works for all, which is centred on tackling corruption and electing competent leaders with capacity, character, compassion and commitment to unite, secure, and move the nation from consumption to production,” Obi said.
