I'll strengthen credible opposition if elected president - Peter Obi ***Donates ₦25m to University on the Niger

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Peter Obi with the students and the administrators of the school

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By Madu Obi

Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has said that if elected President of Nigeria, he would prioritize the strengthening of credible opposition parties, describing them as essential to effective governance and democratic stability.

Obi, who recently moved from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), to pursue his presidential ambition in 2027, stated this during a visit to the permanent site of the University on the Niger, Umunya, a faith-based university in Anambra State, where he donated ₦25 million to support the development of the institution.

Addressing reporters during the visit, Obi said his movement between political parties had never been for convenience, but a response to persistent internal crises and litigations instigated within such platforms.

“People are talking about political parties, but for me, I talk about service. I have never left any party for leaving sake. I leave when I see conflict and unresolved crises.

In one case, I was in Labour Party and saw endless litigations. In ADC as well, I experienced similar issues. In most cases, I became the target, and I had to move", he said.

According to him, political parties in Nigeria are often driven by the pursuit of power, rather than democratic ideals, stressing the need for tolerance and internal democracy.

“Opposition is a critical part of government. If I were in government today, one of my key priorities would be to build a strong opposition, engage them, and take their constructive advice,” Obi said.

Responding to questions on his continuous financial contributions to educational institutions despite his presidential ambition, which would require enormous financial resources, Obi said he would not channel resources towards political mobilisation or for votes protection strategies.

“People expect me to save money to pay polling unit agents, but I will not do that. Nigerians should learn to protect their votes themselves.

I am spending my money on education because I believe in the future of young people,” he said.

He urged the students to take their studies seriously, noting that education remains the foundation of personal and national development.

“You may choose to go into business or politics, but your future depends on education. Whatever you want to be in future, acquire education first. We want a country where the child of nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody. That is possible, and it will happen", Obi added.

He lamented the prevailing value system in the country, where, according to him, remuneration for political office holders often exceeds that of academics.

“It is shameful that a councillor earns more than a professor. That is part of what we are trying to change,” he stated.

Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Chinedu Nebo commended Obi for supporting educational and health institutions across the country, adding that it is due to his concern for a better future for Nigeria.