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Peter Obi: “Hate Has to Stop for Nigeria to Move Forward”
Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate, has explained his decision to congratulate General Yakubu Gowon on his 90th birthday.
His message, which was received with mixed reactions, emphasized the importance of forgiveness and moving beyond the dark chapters of Nigeria’s history, particularly the civil war that claimed millions of lives.
Obi acknowledged the deep pain felt by many Nigerians due to the 30-month civil war between 1967 and 1970, which saw General Gowon as the head of state and leader of the federal forces, while Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu led Biafra.
However, he argued that the path to healing lies in forgiveness, not in holding onto past grievances.
Obi pointed to his Christian faith as a foundation for his stance, referencing biblical verses like Colossians 3:13 and Ephesians 4:31-32, which urge forgiveness.
Obi also recalled how Nigeria honoured Ojukwu, the Biafran leader, with a national burial in 2012, during his time as Anambra governor.
The burial, he said, was a sign of Nigeria’s willingness to move forward in reconciliation.
He emphasized that anger and bitterness only deepen divisions, while forgiveness can foster healing and pave the way for a united nation.
He urged his supporters and Nigerians to focus on building a New Nigeria, one free from ethnic and religious divisions.
While some criticized his decision to greet Gowon, Obi insisted that silence would harm the country’s efforts to move forward.
He called on Nigerians to join him in promoting peace, unity, and good governance, which he believes are crucial to the nation’s survival.
General Gowon, who led Nigeria through the civil war, remains one of the country’s most prominent elder statesmen.
At 90, he is seen as a symbol of resilience and leadership, despite the controversial legacy of the war.
Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, another key figure in Nigeria’s history, also played a crucial role in ending the war, and at 87, continues to advocate for a united and just Nigeria.
Peter Obi’s message highlights the tension between remembering the past and forging a path forward, with his focus on the latter being central to his vision for the future.
Since Uber exited Nigeria, rumours have been circulating over why the company left the country. One of the claims suggested that FAAN was part of the reason for the exit.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has now addressed the rumours and claims of its involvement in Uber’s decision to leave Nigeria.
FAAN said it could not speak for Uber’s decision, noting that the company likely had its own economic and regulatory considerations for leaving Nigeria.
FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, said “I can’t speak to Uber’s exit from Nigeria. I am sure they have their own economic and regulatory decisions as to why they chose to exit.”
Governor of Akwa Ibom, Pastor Umo Eno, reflected on a career choice he made when he had no choice back then.
The governor recalled how he made not less than ₦10 million in a month from selling bread and akara.
He stated “I started selling Akara and bread. Back then, I was doing Akara Burger — we opened the bread and put Akara inside for you. I made not less than ₦10 million in a month.”
Many Nigerians reacted and wondered if his reflection was in response to what the First Lady advised Nigerians earlier about selling corn.
Uber makes headlines in Nigeria as it announces that it is leaving the country. The transportation and logistics business has been in operation in Nigeria since 2014 and suddenly announced its exit on September 2, 2026.
This started with users receiving a message from the team stating that the company would be leaving Nigeria, and the announcement quickly began trending as many Nigerians started talking about Uber’s exit.
Uber shared “We are writing to share some difficult news. After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026.
“This wasn’t a decision we made lightly, because it will have a real impact on our teammates and friends who have worked hard for Uber. It’s important to say that these changes are about how we’re organised and what we’re prioritising, not about anyone’s contributions to Uber, which we will always value,” Khosrowshahi said.
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