Peter Obi’s Dream for Nigeria May Never Materialize Due to Religious and Ethnic Divides, Says Fr. Kelvin Ugwu

 

A respected Nigerian Catholic priest, Reverend Father Kelvin Ugwu, has sparked conversations online following a candid reflection on the state of the nation and the fading hope for a transformed Nigeria. Drawing from the contentious events surrounding the 2023 presidential election, Fr. Ugwu lamented the entrenched religious and ethnic divisions that continue to shape political choices in the country. According to him, these deep-rooted sentiments are signs that the new Nigeria many people desire remains far from reality.

Father Ugwu, known for his thought-provoking posts and social commentary on issues of national importance, voiced his concerns on Facebook where he shared what appears to be a heartfelt confession of disappointment. His remarks centered on former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, whom he praised for his integrity, values, and unique political ideology.

Peter Obi, often seen as a beacon of hope for many Nigerians disillusioned with the status quo, was the symbol of a rising political movement during the 2023 elections. His campaign resonated with millions, particularly among the youth and urban voters who were eager for a break from the cycle of corrupt leadership and mismanagement that has plagued Nigeria for decades. Yet, despite this wave of support, Obi fell short of clinching the presidency. This outcome left many questioning whether the nation is truly ready for change.

Fr. Ugwu acknowledged Peter Obi’s admirable character, noting that he embodies Christian values that many professed Christians no longer uphold. He described Obi as a man whose personal discipline, humility, and commitment to truth stand in stark contrast to the typical Nigerian politician. Nevertheless, the priest warned that the dream of a new Nigeria as envisioned by Obi might not be feasible in the present climate.

What seemed to have particularly discouraged the clergyman was the way the elections unfolded. He referenced the tribal and religious biases that overwhelmed the democratic process, suggesting that many Nigerians still allow sentiments to guide their political decisions rather than competence or vision. According to Fr. Ugwu, this reality makes national redemption a daunting, if not impossible, task.

He remarked that he once believed 2023 would mark a turning point for the country. After enduring the economic hardship and political instability of the Buhari-led administration, he expected a strong, unified resolve among the electorate to choose a different path. Instead, the election revealed a nation still shackled by old loyalties and prejudices.

In his words, “The truth is that the type of new Nigeria that Peter Obi is advocating is not realistically possible. In fact, it is not even seraphically possible.” He further emphasized that although many continue to hope for a better Nigeria, the realities on the ground suggest otherwise. The political and social fabric of the country, he believes, remains too fractured for meaningful change to emerge anytime soon.

Fr. Ugwu’s message was not one of bitterness but rather a sobering call to reflection. He acknowledged the efforts and passion of those still advocating for change, including fellow ministers and well-meaning citizens, yet he cautioned that optimism must be grounded in reality. He concluded with a striking sentiment, saying that even if the dream of a new Nigeria were to materialize, it would not happen in the lifetime of anyone reading his post today.

The priest’s perspective has triggered varied reactions across social media. Some users echoed his sentiments, pointing out that until Nigerians are willing to rise above religious and ethnic allegiances, the country will continue to recycle the same leadership problems. Others, however, urged him not to lose hope, arguing that societal transformation often takes time and requires persistent effort.

Regardless of differing views, Fr. Kelvin Ugwu’s post has added another layer to the ongoing national conversation about leadership, unity, and the future of Nigeria. His voice, carrying both spiritual and moral weight, has reminded many that the journey toward a better nation demands more than idealism. It requires a collective willingness to confront and dismantle the divisive structures that have held the country back for decades.