CLO Condemns Attacks on Peter Obi, Urges Igbo Leaders to Embrace Unity

The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Anambra State Branch, has condemned what it described as persistent attacks against prominent Igbo political leaders, particularly former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, while calling on political stakeholders in the Southeast to embrace unity and mutual respect.

The organisation warned that political disagreements and personal ambitions should not be allowed to undermine the collective interests of the Igbo people, stressing that public office holders and political leaders must prioritise the welfare of their people above partisan considerations.

The position was contained in a statement issued in Awka, Anambra State, and signed by the CLO Chairman, Evangelist Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme AMBP-UN; Secretary, Comrade Chidi Mbah; and Comrade Peter Oke.

In the statement titled *”Remember God Watches Us, We Must Give Account Of Our Stewardship,”* the organisation expressed concern over what it described as hostility among some Igbo political leaders, particularly towards Peter Obi, whom it credited with bringing honour and recognition to the Igbo nation, the Southeast and Nigeria.

Quoting Nigeria’s first President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, the CLO recalled his words: “We must make friends, not enemies; think the best, not the worst, of others.”

The organisation argued that attacking political opponents through unsubstantiated allegations would neither strengthen the political fortunes of those involved nor serve the interests of the electorate.

According to the statement, political leaders should understand that the people are increasingly aware of political developments and would not readily accept statements or actions motivated by personal and narrow interests.

“Power belongs to the people, and the people are listening and watching the unwise statements of our political leaders, made just to advance their personal, parochial interest to the detriment of the people,” the organisation stated.

The CLO also raised concerns about the position of some political leaders opposing the agitation for a power shift to the Southeast, arguing that the region deserves serious consideration after nearly three decades of the current democratic dispensation.

It questioned when the Southeast would have its opportunity to produce Nigeria’s President if political stakeholders continued to resist the demand.

“If it is not our turn, when will it be our turn?” the statement asked.

The organisation maintained that Nigerians, particularly voters in the Southeast, had become more politically conscious and would not easily surrender their convictions to propaganda or divisive political narratives.

CLO Highlights Obi’s Record in Public Office

Defending Obi’s record in public service, the organisation pointed to his decision to reject certain benefits and leave substantial funds in government accounts after leaving office as evidence of what it described as financial discipline, transparency and responsible leadership.

It argued that such actions distinguished him as an example of accountable governance and challenged the assertion that honesty and transparency were incompatible with active participation in politics.

The CLO further recalled the 2023 general elections, noting that Obi attracted significant public support despite, according to the organisation, lacking an established network of elected councillors and facing opposition from several political office holders and members of the political establishment.

It said the electoral experience should serve as a lesson to political leaders that public acceptance and credibility cannot be secured by pulling down perceived opponents.

“He who puts off another man’s light has incurred permanent darkness, and you cannot succeed by pulling others down,” the statement added.

Calls for Responsible Leadership and Democratic Values

The organisation urged Igbo political leaders to reflect on the long-term consequences of their political decisions, warning that history would ultimately judge them by their contributions to society rather than their political affiliations or the interests they defended.

It also reminded political stakeholders of the role played by the Civil Liberties Organisation in the struggle for Nigeria’s present democratic dispensation, insisting that the country’s democracy must be protected, defended and strengthened.

The CLO called on political leaders across the Southeast to embrace tolerance, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, stressing that political power is temporary and should be exercised with a strong sense of responsibility.

It concluded with an appeal for unity and reconciliation, urging leaders to allow one another to thrive rather than promote divisions that could weaken the collective political strength of the Igbo people.