The Member representing Okpe/Uvwie/Sapele Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Benedict Etanabene, has declared his unwavering support for Mr. Peter Obi’s presidential ambition, even if the former Anambra State Governor contests under the coalition platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a media parley held on Monday at the Labour Party Secretariat in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. Etanabene said his commitment to Obi transcends party lines, as he still believes in Obi’s vision for a better Nigeria.
“I still share in the mission and vision of Mr. Peter Obi. Many Nigerians may not fully realize the brilliant ideas he has for transforming this nation, but I have absolute confidence in his administrative competence and visionary leadership. He has what it takes to move Nigeria forward,” Etanabene stated.
According to him, what the country urgently needs is a prudent leader who can manage the nation’s economy effectively, putting smiles back on the faces of Nigerians.
Etanabene expressed full support for Obi’s reported move to join the ADC-led coalition, adding that he is ready to openly campaign for him and participate in his campaign team, even while remaining in the Labour Party.
“I share in his vision for a better Nigeria. If it requires gathering like minds together to achieve that, it’s a worthy venture. So, I support his movement into the ADC coalition, especially as it provides a credible opposition platform against the government of the day,” he said.
“I sincerely hope he is given the presidential ticket in the ADC. I am fully committed to seeing someone like Mr. Peter Obi emerge as President in 2027.”
Etanabene stressed that his support for Obi is not based on personality cults or past political offices but on the genuine qualities of prudence and nation-building he believes Obi represents.
“The problem with Nigeria is not a lack of brains or manpower capacity to steer the country’s affairs. What we lack is the mentality of prudent management. The nation’s resources are routinely mismanaged on ventures that do not bring about economic growth or development,” he lamented.
Etanabene criticized the government for prioritizing luxury spending over critical sectors.
“Instead of investing in healthcare, education, security, and other vital areas, the government prefers to buy new presidential jets and official cars, renovate buildings with billions of naira, and construct coastal roads worth trillions while existing infrastructure remains in a state of decay.”
He cited the example of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death in a London hospital, calling it a national disgrace.
“For me, that’s unacceptable. There’s no reason why Nigeria cannot replicate world-class hospitals here at home for the benefit of our people.”
Reiterating his stance, Etanabene said:
“The problem we have in Nigeria is not that we don’t have capable people to run the country, but that we lack leaders with the mentality of prudent spending.”
He also dismissed speculations about internal crises in the Labour Party, assuring Nigerians that the party remains intact. However, he urged all well-meaning citizens—regardless of party affiliation—to rally behind Peter Obi.
“I believe every patriotic Nigerian, no matter your party, so long as you are in the opposition, should rally around Peter Obi to become the President of this country.”
Reflecting on Obi’s 2023 presidential run, Etanabene noted that the hunger and frustration in the land at the time made Obi’s message resonate widely with the people.
“Nigeria needs a leader with the capacity to rescue the nation from further hardship in 2027, and that person is no other than Peter Obi,” he concluded.