The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has said that genuine love for Nigeria must be demonstrated through concrete actions, including the promotion of free and fair elections and the rejection of corruption, greed, and division.
Obi made this statement on Saturday in a Valentine’s Day message shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, where he urged Nigerians to move beyond symbolic expressions of patriotism and embrace “love in action” for national renewal.
According to the former Anambra State governor, the challenges confronting Nigeria today require more than emotional attachment to the country. He stressed that true love for the nation is reflected in citizens’ commitment to justice, integrity, accountability, and the collective good.
Obi explained that the commemoration of Saint Valentine offers an important lesson for Nigerians, noting that love is not merely about words or fleeting emotions but about sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering commitment to what is right. He listed core values such as honesty, compassion, respect for one another, and devotion to the common good as essential pillars for building a better society.
He further emphasized that Nigeria’s democratic progress depends on the willingness of citizens and leaders alike to reject corrupt practices and uphold the sanctity of the electoral process. According to him, free and fair elections remain the foundation for credible leadership and sustainable national development.
Obi also cautioned against divisive tendencies, urging Nigerians to resist narratives that promote ethnic, religious, or regional hatred. He maintained that unity and shared responsibility are critical to overcoming the country’s socio-economic and political challenges.
Concluding his message, Obi called on Nigerians to allow the spirit of Valentine’s Day to inspire meaningful actions that strengthen democracy, promote good governance, and foster national cohesion. He noted that only through principled leadership and active citizenship can Nigeria move closer to becoming the nation its people desire and deserve.
