Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep concern over what he described as the insensitivity of Nigeria’s political and institutional leadership following a distressing encounter with an elderly woman during his visit to Shanahan College of Nursing Sciences, Nsukka.
Obi recounted how the woman, a retired civil servant, struggled to get his attention despite efforts by those around to silence her. Upon hearing her story, he learned that she had not received her pension for some time and was unable to afford basic necessities, including food, while hospitalized for over a week.
The former Anambra State governor condemned the government’s failure to fulfill its obligations to pensioners, labeling any administration that withholds retirees’ entitlements as “wicked.” He recalled that during his tenure as governor, he inherited and cleared over ₦30 billion in accumulated pensions and gratuities to alleviate the suffering of elderly citizens.
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Expressing a mix of anger and pity, Obi criticized the greed of political leaders who prioritize personal wealth over the welfare of citizens. He provided immediate financial assistance to the woman and pledged to follow up on her case with the hospital management.
However, he emphasized that the issue extends beyond one individual, highlighting the plight of countless others suffering in silence across the country. Urging urgent reforms, Obi stressed that Nigeria must work for all its citizens, ensuring that everyone receives due rewards for their contributions.
