Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to put pressure on political leaders at home by encouraging their relatives to vote for candidates capable of improving the country’s economy.
Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, made the appeal during a town hall meeting with diaspora supporters in Manchester on Sunday, where he discussed Nigeria’s economic challenges and the need for political change.
He advised Nigerians abroad to reconsider sending money to relatives who regularly seek financial assistance, arguing that such support could ease immediate hardship without addressing the underlying problems facing the country.
“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he said.
According to Obi, poor leadership has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economic difficulties, making it necessary for citizens to demand accountability and choose leaders who can improve living conditions.
The former governor also cited his record in office to support his argument for more responsible management of public funds. He claimed that his savings as governor of Anambra State set him apart from other state governors.
“I’m not saying I’m a saint, but I saved money. I’ve not seen one governor who has saved 10 per cent of what I saved. No governor has done it,” Obi said.
He urged Nigerians to begin the process of political change by supporting leaders they consider less corrupt, arguing that gradual improvements in leadership could help the country move forward.
“Let’s start with this one that is less corrupt. That’s how other countries change,” he added.
Obi further stressed that improving Nigeria required citizens at home and abroad to take collective responsibility for the country’s future. He encouraged diaspora Nigerians to use their influence within their families and communities to promote political participation and informed voting.
He also called on Nigerians to pay close attention to the 2027 general election, describing it as an important opportunity to determine the country’s future direction.
The former governor’s remarks linked the financial support many Nigerians abroad provide to relatives with a broader argument that lasting economic improvement would depend on better governance, responsible use of public resources and citizens’ choices at the ballot box.
