Peter Obi urges UK diaspora to stop remittances and calls for credible leadership amid APC warnings on his political momentum

Peter Obi, the presidential hopeful of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), addressed a gathering of supporters in the United Kingdom on Sunday, urging members of the Nigerian diaspora to stop providing financial assistance to relatives and acquaintances back home. According to the Daily Post, Obi suggested that instead of remitting funds, expatriates should encourage their families to vote for leaders with proven integrity and competence. He highlighted his own record as the former governor of Anambra State, claiming that he managed to save a substantial portion of the state’s finances during his tenure, a performance he said no other governor had matched.

Obi also acknowledged that he was not a flawless figure, describing himself as “not a saint” while emphasizing his achievements in fiscal management. He argued that the country’s progress depends on citizens rejecting corrupt officials and electing individuals capable of delivering effective governance. The statements were made during a town‑hall meeting organised for Nigerians living in the UK, where he also outlined a broader vision of building a “New Nigeria” focused on combating corruption and shifting the economy from consumption to production.

In a separate development, the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) released a statement warning that Obi’s political capital could erode if he fails to demonstrate ideological consistency and organisational depth ahead of the 2027 general elections. The APC spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, noted that the enthusiasm generated by Obi’s 2023 campaign—driven by public frustration, youth mobilisation and social media activity—does not automatically guarantee lasting relevance. He stressed that political momentum must be reinforced by consistent policies, credible platforms and robust grassroots structures.

Oladejo also raised concerns about Obi’s history of switching party affiliations, pointing out moves from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP) and other alignments. While acknowledging that changing parties is not inherently problematic, the APC spokesman argued that repeated shifts could create an impression of personal ambition outweighing commitment to enduring principles.

Both narratives converge on the theme that Nigeria’s political future hinges on credible leadership and sustained organisational capacity. Obi’s appeal to the diaspora to halt remittances and focus on voting aligns with his broader anti‑corruption message, while the APC’s cautionary remarks underscore the challenges he faces in converting past momentum into a durable electoral base for the upcoming 2027 polls.