Akpabio Criticizes Obi Over ‘Labour of Heroes’ Remark, Questions Readiness for Leadership
Abuja, Nigeria – Senate President Godswill Akpabio has openly criticized Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over recent remarks implying that “the labour of our heroes past is all in vain.”
Akpabio made the comments during a valedictory session held in honour of the late Chief Edwin Clark, a former senator and elder statesman. While paying tribute to Clark’s legacy, Akpabio used the platform to question Obi’s political preparedness and leadership capacity.
The Senate President advised Obi to resolve ongoing internal crises within the Labour Party before aspiring to national leadership. He argued that a candidate unable to unify his own party may lack the competence to tackle broader national issues such as insecurity.
“If you cannot manage your own party, how can you manage a country?” Akpabio asked pointedly.
He further stressed that effective national leadership begins with demonstrating control and stability within one’s political base. Aspiring leaders, he said, must prove their readiness through competence in party administration.
Akpabio also touched on the challenges of political discourse in the digital age, warning about the dangers of misinformation on unregulated social media platforms. He urged political figures to be cautious about divisive rhetoric online, emphasizing the need for unity and responsible communication.
The valedictory session was convened in recognition of Chief Edwin Clark’s contributions as a senator during Nigeria’s Second Republic. Lawmakers paid glowing tributes to Clark, describing him as a lifelong advocate for justice and a voice for the marginalized. A minute of silence was observed in his honour.