By Eric Ifere

Reno Omokri’s relentless criticism of Peter Obi, while seemingly comical, serves to underscore the significance of the very person he’s attempting to belittle. His attempts to reduce Peter Obi to a mere figure of fun are not only futile but also highlight his own lack of valid criticism.

For instance, his claim that Peter Obi is ‘not a suitable or fit person to be the Nigerian president’ is baseless. Peter Obi’s impeccable track record, including his successful tenure as the Governor of Anambra State where he significantly improved the state’s economy and infrastructure, his unwavering commitment to serve, and his outstanding qualities, such as intelligence and readiness, not only position him as the most fitting candidate to steer Nigeria towards a prosperous future but also provide us with the reassurance we need in our leadership and instil hope for a better future. Reno’s baseless criticism only serves to strengthen Peter Obi’s position. It’s essential to acknowledge that Peter Obi’s past actions and decisions, although not without criticism, have consistently been in the best interest of the people.

Just a few days ago, Reno Omokri launched into a tirade, claiming that Peter Obi is ‘not a suitable or fit person to be the Nigerian president. He is a low-cultured individual who lacks class and diplomacy and is not polished.’ His entire argument hinged on Obi’s address to the revered newly crowned Olubadan as ‘my dear brother,’ a clear example of his superficial judgments. How conceited Reno Omokri is, he has failed to comment on the addressing of the same Olubadan by President Tinubu a few days later, in similar words, calling the revered King of Ibadan ‘my dear brother’

By calling Peter Obi a trader only fit to operate a stall in Onitsha, not fit for Aso Rock, Reno Omokri reveals the bigotry of his own views. These views are not suitable for present-day Nigeria, as Peter Obi’s dream and preaching, his cardinal point of proposed leadership, aim to unify Nigeria and make it a country of our forefathers’ dreams. Peter Obi’s vision of a united Nigeria is what we need to inspire change and a better future for our country. It’s this unity, this sense of belonging and shared purpose, that will bring about the change we so desperately need.

Instead of taking offence at the baseless attacks on Peter Obi by Reno Omokri, we should thank him for keeping Peter Obi in our thoughts. These attacks have only served to strengthen Peter Obi, demonstrating his ability to handle adversity and emerge stronger. As the saying goes, ‘he who fights you every day is sharpening your skills, your antagonist is your helper.’ Reno’s attacks, while insulting to Peter Obi’s reputation in the short term, only serve to highlight his strengths and resilience. It’s these very attacks that reveal the kind of leader Peter Obi is: one who can handle adversity and emerge stronger, inspiring us all with his resilience and determination.

Without any iota of doubt, every Nigerian knows that Peter Obi belongs to the first grade of persons who are fit to govern this country more than most pretenders to that office, if we were to select a leader based on their intelligence, readiness to serve, and abilities. His unwavering commitment to serve our nation is a testament to his dedication. Peter Obi’s specific plans to address the economy, infrastructure, and social issues provide us with the reassurance we need in our leadership and instil hope for a better future.

We urge all Nigerians to look towards Peter Obi as the leader who can right the wrongs that have been done to us, lift the burdens that the current leadership has placed on us, and bring genuine hope to a nation that is desperate for good leadership. It’s time for us to see through the tactics of those seeking attention, such as Reno Omokri, and recognise the true potential of Peter Obi. Let’s empower ourselves to bring about the change we so desperately need by supporting Peter Obi in any elective office he seeks. Let this hope for a better Nigeria be our driving force. Together, we can inspire change and a brighter future for Nigeria, feeling empowered by our collective support for Peter Obi.

God bless Nigeria!
Eric Ifere
National Legal Adviser – Labour Party Interim National Working Committee.