Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi have once again voiced their criticisms of Nigeria’s leadership and governance issues. They emphasized that despite Nigeria’s rich human and natural resources, the nation’s progress is hindered by ineffective leadership.
This conversation took place during the opening of the Methodist Church Nigeria’s 50th/15th Biennial Conference in Ibadan, Oyo State. Delegates from across Nigeria and the diaspora congregated under the theme “I Will Fight For You” (Exodus 14:14), with discussions focused on national security, governance, economic recovery, leadership, justice, and the country’s future.
Makinde highlighted that Nigeria’s primary issue lies not in a lack of talent or resources but in leadership quality. He stated, “Our nation does not lack talent or resources. What Nigeria needs now more than ever is leadership that unites people around a common purpose and prioritizes service over self-interest.”
Makinde then announced his intention to run for the presidency of Nigeria, expressing, “I am running to be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” He appealed for support, confident that with faith in God and commitment, Nigeria’s best days are ahead. He criticized politicians for prioritizing personal gain over national development, remarking on their tendency to embezzle public funds.
Obi advocated for substantial investment in agriculture, education, and healthcare instead of squandering public resources. He urged a shift from consumption to production and value creation, emphasizing the need for leaders with competence, capacity, and compassion.
Obi recounted talks with Governor Makinde following kidnappings in the Oriire Local Government Area, voicing his disappointment over what he considered the Federal Government’s insufficient response.
“Insecurity persists because corruption has undermined our institutions,” Obi noted. He stressed that non-state actors become stronger than the state only when corruption prevails. He called on religious leaders to hold authorities accountable, emphasizing their vital role in speaking truth to power.
Obi warned against misuse of public funds, reminding that money cannot replace health or life, urging that public money should be used for the public good.
In his State of the Nation address, His Eminence Oliver Aba, Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, praised Governor Makinde and Oyo State for hosting the conference. He celebrated Ibadan’s historical, educational, and cultural heritage.
Reflecting on the conference theme, Aba linked God’s deliverance of Israel to modern-day Nigeria’s challenges with insecurity threatening national stability. “Banditry, kidnapping, and killings have devastated states like Borno, Benue, and Plateau,” he noted.
Aba urged the Federal Government to fulfill its constitutional duty of protecting citizens. He acknowledged the rescue of abducted schoolchildren as a rare security accomplishment while expressing sorrow for those who did not return home.
