The presidential flag bearer of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, promised to rebuild the country and stop treasury looters if elected president in 2023.

Mr Obi made the promise while addressing party supporters during a rally at the Baptist Convention Ground.

“We will stop people from looting the nation’s treasury,” he said.

He assured the people, particularly youths and women, of his commitment to securing the nation for the people’s overall interest.

“It’s about you (referring to the youths); with you, we will take back this country.

“Labour Party will stop nepotism, that is my commitment,” Mr the presidential hopeful said.

Mr Obi further assured that if elected president of Nigeria, the people would no longer go to bed hungry.

Business activities and vehicular movements were halted on Friday in Benin following the huge crowd thronging the various streets to welcome the presidential candidate.

While receiving him and his running mate, Yusuf Datti, in his palace, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, said the presidential candidate’s reputation preceded him.

The monarch told Mr Obi that there were a lot of temptations in office and asked if he could resist them and remain clean.

The traditional ruler maintained that the Benin throne, right from time immemorial, had remained apolitical as he was the father to all.

He said the throne was interested in the one who had the interest of Nigerians at heart, one who could make life meaningful for all.

Responding to the Oba’s questions about resisting temptations associated with the office, Mr Obi said he and his running mate would do all in their powers to resist and fight corruption in the country.

He said the forthcoming elections should not be based on religion and ethnic sentiments but on competency and one who could deliver to Nigerians the dividends of democracy.

Mr Obi assured that if elected, his government would leverage the country’s population and vast lands to boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product and improve Nigerians’ lives.

(NAN)