Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, has urged Nigerian leaders to draw lessons from the recent protests in Kenya. In a statement on his verified X page, formerly known as Twitter, Obi highlighted the importance of responsive governance and fiscal responsibility.
"The Nigerian political leaders should take a strong lesson from the recent Kenyan experience," Obi began. He emphasized that when the Kenyan public felt their government was failing to make necessary sacrifices and prioritize resources effectively, they spoke out, demanded change, and protested.
In response to these protests, the Kenyan President demonstrated true leadership by listening to the people's demands and taking action. He recognized that a government's purpose is to serve its citizens, not to indulge in excessive spending. The government implemented several measures to show fiscal responsibility, including canceling budgets for the offices of the First Lady and Second Lady, dissolving 47 state agencies, suspending nonessential travel for government workers, freezing the purchase of new cars for officials, and reducing the number of advisers by half.
A notable instance of transparency was when the president was accused of chartering a plane to America. Instead of dismissing the concerns, he responded openly and addressed the issue, showcasing a commitment to accountability and responsive governance.
In stark contrast, Obi pointed out, Nigerian leaders often respond arrogantly to the genuine grievances of suffering citizens. Instead of addressing legitimate concerns and being accountable, they resort to using public funds to pay media thugs to insult and abuse those who speak truth to power.
Obi called on Nigerian leaders to abandon these detrimental habits, stop feasting, and start making sacrifices for the greater good of the suffering masses. He stressed that true change and progress require leaders who are sincere, willing to listen, act responsibly, and prioritize the welfare of the people over personal or political interests.
"If we make the necessary changes and sacrifices, a new Nigeria is possible," Obi concluded, urging for a shift towards a more responsive and accountable leadership.