The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the February 25 election, Mr Peter Obi, says public office holders harping on the need for austere lifestyle among Nigerians must also walk their talks.
He noted that those asking Nigerians to make sacrifices must also be willing to let go of some of the pecks and trappings of the positions they occupy.
Obi spoke on the sidelines of the funeral service of the late Dean of Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev Maxwell Anikwenwa, at St Faith’s Anglican Cathedral, Awka.
He stressed that the behavior, character and conduct of public officers must be in tandem with the prevailing realities of the society.
“We can’t continue to preach for people to make sacrifice without sacrificing. The sacrifice must start from the leaders, visibly and measurably because the people are suffering and we must now be at the forefront of the suffering”, the former Anambra State governor said..
Obi described the late Anikwenwa as not only a man of God, but a great Nigerian who contributed meaningfully beyond his pastoral work, but also contributed immensely in building a better Nigeria.
“Those who know him well, must testify that he was involved in advocating for a better Nigeria, good governance and everything,” Obi said.
The Primate , Church of Nigeria, Most Rev Henry Ndukuba, who presided at the ceremony said . Anikwenwa truly lived by the principles the Anglican Church is known for.
According to him, having done his work successfully on earth, the renowned cleric had gone home to rest.
The Prelate said: ” He was the pioneer Bishop of Awka and Dean of Church of Nigeria. He lived on the principle of service to God and was a true servant of God who loves his people”
No fewer than 100 Archbishops, Bishops and priests from all parts of the country participated at the service.