Women leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) across the country have praised former Governor Peter Obi for his impeccable character, excellent leadership traits, and gender-friendly approach to governance.
Speaking on behalf of the group during an interactive session with Mr. Peter Obi in Abuja, the National Woman Leader of the Party, Prof. Stella Attoe, said Obi has demonstrated a strong commitment to women’s empowerment and development over the years.
Prof Attoe stated that Obi’s humility had continued to endear him to many people in the public and private sectors. She stated that, aside from his excellent academic credentials, Obi’s discipline and prudence distinguished him as an admirable leader capable of leading the country.
“Though we are not here to advertise him, it is my pleasure to highlight the good qualities he possesses. I have observed Mr. Peter Obi for a long time. He is a man with practical leadership qualities. His track records of success in governance are there for Nigerians to see. His performance in Anambra State is still a model of good governance in many quarters.
“It is not easy for one to leave behind N75 billion and walk away. It takes strength of character, courage and discipline to achieve that. These are some of the noticeable qualities still shining forth from his outing as Anambra’s Governor. Some people describe him as stingy, but he was, obviously, being prudent with the state’s resources, and that stood him out as one of the best Governors Nigeria has ever produced,” Prof. Attoe remarked.
Hajia Aishatu Ibrahim Madina, Women Leader, North West Zone, said in her speech that Obi’s ambition was another chance for Nigerians to reclaim what they lost in 2019. “A lot of us know that we did not just lose the election in 2019, we also lost an opportunity to get Nigeria working again because with you on that team, we were very hopeful for a better Nigeria,” she said.
Tessy Ese Torru, a South-South Women Leader, said Obi carried out integrated development in Anambra State by bringing all sectors along at the same time. She revealed that Obi has a soft spot for women and will go out of his way to help those in need. “I know you are very gender-friendly, and with your economic background, you will turn the country around for the better if given the opportunity,” she concluded.
Susan Mark Zira, the PDP Women Leader in Adamawa State, described Obi as a man who does not speak empty words. “I have carefully listened to Mr. Peter Obi today, and I now believe there is hope for Nigeria,” she added. I hope you become the beating heart of Nigerians during this election so that we can get it right.”
Other female leaders joined in the praise for Obi, describing him as having the solution to the nation’s problems.
In his address to the women, Obi bemoaned the many challenges confronting the nation on multiple fronts, which he said could be mitigated with responsible leadership and good governance. He bemoaned the decadence manifesting in Nigeria”s education sector.
“UNICEF recently reported that the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria has increased from 15 million to 18.5 million, with 60 percent of them being girls.” This is a dangerous trend that requires strong leadership to reverse. If given the opportunity, I will continue to serve and develop our nation, Nigeria,” Obi concluded.