The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has called on Governor Charles Soludo to show humility, gratitude, and compassion, following what he described as an ?unfortunate and bitter? outburst by the governor.

Speaking to journalists at the just-concluded Guild of Editors meeting at the Naval Base, Abuja, Obi congratulated Soludo on securing a second tenure and urged him to appreciate God?s mercies by responding to victory with grace rather than resentment.

Obi?s remarks come after Soludo provoked controversy during his certificate-of-return ceremony, where he mocked his critics by calling Peter Obi a ?frustrated politician without a club,? and accused him of damaging the education system in Anambra.

?I feel compelled to respond because if I do not, I will be accused of dodging the question,? Obi said, expressing surprise at Soludo?s remarks.

?On an occasion meant to celebrate his certificate of return, instead of thanking Almighty God for granting him a second tenure ? a moment to demonstrate love and magnanimity ? he chose to show bitterness and resentment. It was deeply unfortunate.?

Obi clarified his involvement in the recent Anambra election: ?I only attended three public events with the Labour Party candidate, strictly where I was invited. At none of these events did I mention anyone by name or meet with traditional rulers, market leaders, or any other group to discuss candidates. There was nothing I said to warrant controversy or speculation,? he stressed.

Reflecting on election day, Obi recounted how he quietly fulfilled his civic duty, conscious of the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership. ?I witnessed irregularities and disruptions that could have easily escalated into chaos,? he said.

?When outsiders attempted to cast votes in our community, I stepped in and urged my people to remain calm and allow them to act peacefully. In that moment, I was reminded that integrity must always take precedence over politics. True leadership is measured not by the contest for power, but by the courage to uphold fairness, restraint, and the dignity of our people?even in the most trying circumstances.?

Addressing Soludo?s mocking remarks, Obi used a vivid metaphor from football to clarify his perspective: ?On the day of the election, journalists approached me as if I were on the ballot. I reminded them that I served as governor 13 years ago and have since moved on to a higher level in national politics. In football terms, if gubernatorial candidates are in the first division, I am in the Champions League. I ran for Vice President in 2019 and for President in 2023, winning 11 states and Abuja. I play well at that level, and my record speaks for itself.?

Obi also reflected on his age and historic achievements in Anambra State. ?In both the old and new Anambra, only Jim Nwobodo and I became governors in our forties. I was the first to serve a second tenure. I have no personal issue with Governor Soludo. I pray that God grants him even greater heights, if that will inspire him to show humility, compassion, and a genuine concern for the people,? Obi said.

He concluded with an appeal: ?We must recognise the mercies God grants us. Leadership is not about resentment or bitterness; it is about service, gratitude, and love for our people.? (Nigerian Tribune)

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