Investigate why Nigeria is labelled “a disgraced nation”– Obi charges editors

By Jude Opara

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, has urged the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) to critically examine the reasons behind the designation of Nigeria as “a disgraced country” by the President of America, Donald Trump.
In an address to the editors in Abuja yesterday, themed “Reclaiming Our Nation’s Dignity: A Call to Conscience,” Obi emphasized that editors, as key figures who drive the narrative and shape the future, should focus not just on whether acts of violence qualify as genocide, but rather on the existence of such killings and the reasons that keep fueling them.
Obi stated, “If someone tags us as a disgraced country, we should ask ourselves whether there are issues within our society that warrant this disgrace.”
The former Governor of Anambra state further acknowledged the impact of the media on his political career, saying he has benefited significantly from it; even as he insisted that more effort is required to inspire the younger generation to embrace the values upheld by their elders.
He challenged the editors to address what he described as executive recklessness, arguing that it’s like where one feasts while asking others to continue to fast.
The Labour Party leader while acknowledging that policies such as subsidy removal and currency unification can be beneficial, took a swipe at the current execution of these policies for being mishandled.
On borrowing, he noted that there is nothing wrong in it, but questioned the intentions behind such borrowing, asking, “Are we borrowing to feast?”
Obi n a post on his X handle stated, “Today in Abuja, I addressed the Nigerian Guild of Editors on the theme ‘Reclaiming Our Nation’s Dignity.’ I thanked them for their vital role in shaping the national conscience and reminded them that Nigeria stands at a moral and developmental crossroads. The responsibility before us is immense—to speak truth, guide reflection, and inspire hope for a better nation.
“I reminded them that our disgrace as a nation does not stem from external opinions, but from the conditions we have allowed—killings, impunity, corruption, hunger, and the neglect of our people. Today, over 130 million Nigerians live in poverty, and more than 20 million children are out of school. These pressing issues should weigh heavily on our collective conscience.
“I emphasised that true redemption will not come from making excuses but will arise from truth, sacrifice, and leadership by example. Nigeria can rise again if we rebuild our moral foundation, invest in education and healthcare, and prioritise public service for the people rather than for privilege. It is through these values that we can restore our national dignity.
“I reminded them that editors are not merely recorders of history; they are the conscience of t