Peter Obi, presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to reconsider sending money to relatives and other people in Nigeria, arguing that financial assistance alone cannot address the country’s economic challenges.
Obi made the appeal during a town hall meeting with Nigerians in the diaspora in Manchester, UK, where he called on them to use their influence to encourage political accountability and support leaders capable of improving the economy.
The former Anambra State governor argued that money sent home might provide temporary relief for struggling families but would not resolve the underlying problems of poor leadership, poverty and economic insecurity.
“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” Obi said.
He urged Nigerians in the UK to use conversations with family members and friends to encourage them to vote for candidates with the competence and commitment to improve governance, promote productivity and manage public funds responsibly.
According to Obi, Nigeria’s economic difficulties require structural solutions rather than continued dependence on financial support from relatives living abroad.
He maintained that Nigerians must look beyond individual assistance and address the leadership challenges contributing to hardship across the country.
Speaking about his record in public office, Obi defended his approach to managing public resources during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, saying his administration prioritised savings and prudent spending.
“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,” he said.
Obi also called on Nigerians to begin political change by supporting candidates they consider less corrupt, arguing that electing leaders committed to accountability could help improve governance.
“Let’s start with this one that is less corrupt. That’s how other countries change,” he said.
The NDC presidential aspirant further urged Nigerians to take the 2027 general election seriously, describing it as a critical opportunity to influence the country’s future.
He called on voters to examine candidates’ records, competence and capacity to address the nation’s economic and governance challenges before making their choices at the polls.
Obi added that Nigerians in the diaspora have a role to play in the country’s development by encouraging informed voting and demanding accountability from political leaders.
He maintained that meaningful progress would require collective responsibility, better leadership and the effective management of public resources.
