Rev Fr Ejike Mbaka, a Catholic priest and founder of Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), has shed light on why many Nigerian youths are supporting Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). According to Mbaka, the youths are searching for someone who can save the country from its current hardships and challenges. He made these comments in a video recorded during one of his church programmes.
Mbaka attributed Nigeria's numerous challenges to spiritual factors, despite the country's abundant human and natural resources. He described Nigeria as one of the most blessed countries globally, particularly in terms of its human resources, but noted that the country has failed to translate its wealth into improved living conditions for its citizens. The cleric emphasized that Nigerian youths are naturally industrious and should not be blamed for searching for alternative leadership.
The Catholic priest highlighted Nigeria's vast mineral resources, including gold and coal, but expressed sadness that many Nigerians continue to live in poverty and face inadequate electricity supply. He cited Enugu, which sits on a multi-trillion-dollar worth of coal, yet its indigenes remain poor. Mbaka's comments come amid growing attention on the support Obi continues to receive among young Nigerians.
Mbaka criticized successive governments for policies and actions that have negatively affected poor Nigerians. He cited the demolition of shops and disputes over land as examples of issues that have hurt ordinary Nigerians. The cleric also attributed the country's insecurity challenges, including kidnapping, to political factors.
According to Mbaka, Nigerian youths are looking for someone they believe can save the country, and they should not be blamed for supporting Obi. He emphasized that the youths' support for Obi should be understood against the backdrop of their search for better leadership and improved living conditions.
The cleric's comments have sparked reactions, with some Nigerians welcoming his perspective on the country's challenges. Others have expressed concerns about the role of spiritual leaders in politics. Mbaka's views have also raised questions about the impact of the youths' support for Obi on the country's politics.
As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, the support for Obi among young Nigerians is expected to continue to shape the country's politics. Mbaka's comments have added to the ongoing debate about the country's challenges and the need for better leadership. The cleric's views have also highlighted the importance of understanding the perspectives of Nigerian youths in the country's politics.
Key points
- Nigerian youths are supporting Peter Obi due to their search for better leadership and improved living conditions.
- Mbaka attributed Nigeria's challenges to spiritual factors despite its abundant resources.
- The cleric criticized successive governments for policies that have negatively affected poor Nigerians.
