"Politicians Are the Problem, Pray for Us"—Did Peter Obi Just Admit That He and His Colleagues Are Nigeria's Greatest Obstacle to Progress?

Published on 31 August 2026 at 10:26

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has made a startling admission that has ignited a fresh national conversation about the role of political leadership in Nigeria's underdevelopment. Speaking at the Koinonia Global Ministries in Abuja on Sunday, August 30, 2026, Obi told worshippers that politicians are the country's biggest problem and asked Nigerians to pray for them to stop stealing public funds.

During the service, which was broadcast live on YouTube, Obi was acknowledged by the founder of Eternity Network International and leader of Koinonia Global, Apostle Joshua Selman, and invited to share a few words with the congregation. The former Anambra State governor did not mince words. "Politicians are the problem of the country. There is nothing wrong with the country, but the politicians are the issue," he declared.

Obi urged Nigerians not to divide their prayers along political lines but to pray for all political leaders, regardless of party affiliation or perceived performance. "We are all here for prayers, but pray for us politicians to stop stealing," he said. He added: "Let God touch our hearts to use public money for public good. Let God touch us to stop stealing. That is why people are suffering here".

The NDC presidential candidate stressed that Nigeria is not a poor country but is being held back by poor governance and the misuse of public resources. "I've been to so many countries of the world. And I've seen things work in other nations. It is leadership," Obi said. He referenced the book "Growing Apart" by Professor Peter Lewis, which examines the different development paths of Nigeria and Indonesia, to reinforce his argument that Nigeria has sufficient resources to achieve meaningful development but has been held back by poor governance.

"If we use the wealth of this nation and invest it, it will go a long way. So remember us in your prayers," he added.

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. Others, however, focused on his message about accountability, responsible leadership and the proper use of public funds.

The video of his 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. Obi's latest comments continue his long-standing emphasis on leadership failure as a central cause of Nigeria's economic and social challenges. He is currently identified in recent political coverage as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

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