By Williams Amofokhai
Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last election, Peter Obi has said he will not be celebrating his 62nd birthday with the current deplorable state of the nation.
Obi will be 62 years on Wednesday, but he reminded his followers in a series of posts on his Twitter page not to mark his birthday, saying he had maintained that decision for over 20 years now.
“I still maintain my decision of over 20 years, that I will not celebrate my birthdays in today’s Nigeria, with the current deplorable state of the nation.
“However, some friends, members of the Labour Party, and ‘OBIdient’ Family and supporters have asked how they can join me in celebrating that day, and even present some gifts.
“Let me humbly and respectfully appeal to all those who desire to celebrate me with any kind of gifts, to look around them and extend such gifts to the people in need, especially in these difficult times.,” he said.
Obi urged his supporters to visit hospitals, orphanages, and homes for the aged and people with disabilities, and offer them such generous gifts.
“They can also visit schools of basic studies in remote areas and support them with the basic amenities they need. Those who wish to do more can visit various IDP camps in different parts of the country.
“I intend to do the same thing. Aside from sharing my time and resources with the less fortunate people around me, I plan to raise money for schools, hospitals, etc,” he added.
Obi noted that he had already said that the sacrifices for a better Nigeria must now start from the leaders and the well-placed, saying that the state of the nation “must give us cause to pause and ponder. There is far too much insecurity, violence, and bloodshed.”
“This month alone over 200 lives have been lost to sustained violent attacks in Mangu LGA in Plateau State. Similarly, in Benue State, over 100 lives have been lost in recent times, the latest being 27 persons killed in Adogo Ugbaam, Akpuuna, and Diom communities in Ukum LGA.
“There are also many other cases of kidnappings and killings in different parts of the country. I want to celebrate in a New Nigeria where the lives and properties of citizens will be secure. I want to celebrate in a productive Nigeria that can create opportunities for our youths
“I want to celebrate in a Nigeria that works for all and which Nigerians can be proud of. This, and not my birthday, is the true celebration that will be beneficial to all Nigerians. As Nigerians, we must always expand our imagination of the Possible, believing as we do that a New Nigeria is Possible,” Obi stated.
