Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential hopeful Peter Obi has described politicians as the major problem facing Nigeria, urging Nigerians to pray for leaders to use public funds for the benefit of citizens.
Obi made the remarks on Sunday, August 30, 2026, during a service at Koinonia Global, an interdenominational ministry founded by Apostle Joshua Selman.
Obi Blames Leadership for Nigeria’s Problems
Speaking after he was acknowledged and invited to address the congregation, Obi asked worshippers to remember politicians in their prayers.
“The only thing I can ask is that you remember us, the politicians, in your prayers. We are the problem of this country. There is nothing wrong with our country; it is only bad leadership,” he said.
Obi urged Nigerians to pray for politicians regardless of whether they consider them good or bad, saying the country’s leaders need a change of heart to properly manage public resources.
He asked God to “touch our hearts to use public money for public good” and “touch us to stop stealing,” arguing that Nigeria’s wealth could address many of the country’s challenges if properly invested.
Obi References Nigeria-Indonesia Development Gap
The former governor also referenced Growing Apart by Professor Peter Lewis, a book examining the different development paths of Nigeria and Indonesia.
Obi used the comparison to reinforce his argument that Nigeria has sufficient resources to achieve meaningful development but has been held back by poor governance and the misuse of public resources.
His remarks echo a position he has expressed repeatedly. In February 2026, Obi told a congregation in Ibadan that politicians were “the problem of Nigeria” and described the country as not poor but poorly governed.
Church Appearance Draws Political Reactions
Obi’s appearance at Koinonia Global has generated mixed reactions online, particularly with the 2027 presidential election approaching.
Some critics questioned his increasing appearances at churches and religious gatherings, interpreting them as part of his political outreach ahead of the election. His supporters, however, focused on his message about accountability, responsible leadership and the proper use of public funds.
Obi is currently identified in recent political coverage as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and his latest comments continue his long-standing emphasis on leadership failure as a central cause of Nigeria’s economic and social challenges.
The video of the remarks, shared by @NigeriaStories on X, has continued to attract significant engagement as Nigerians debate the role of political leadership in addressing the country’s problems.
