Labour Party presidential flag bearer Peter Obi has called on Nigerians to vote for him because the country needs a leader with physical and mental capacity. 

Mr Obi is 61. PDP presidential standard-bearer Atiku Abubakar is 76, and APC’s Bola Tinubu is 70.

He stated this on Tuesday during a presidential rally in Lokoja, Kogi. 

The ex-Anambra governor urged the people to reject other presidential candidates.

“If they give you money, collect it and vote against them because it is your money. Tell them you want to follow those who know the road, that you are tired of being in the wilderness,” said Mr Obi. “The 2023 election will be about character, competence, who has the capacity and capability to bring prosperity to Nigeria, which requires physical and mental capacity, and with your trust.”

He promised to resuscitate the Ajaokuta Steel Company and “bring prosperity to all the three senatorial districts of Kogi, with the enormous resources endowed naturally by God” if elected.

“Steel industry is very important to the development of the economy. Therefore, we will liaise with professionals and experts who know what to do with the Ajaokuta steel company immediately (after) we are sworn in,” he declared.

On the welfare of workers, the Labour Party candidate promised to synergise with state governments to clear arrears of minimum wage and other emoluments and reiterated his commitment to change Nigeria from a consumption to a production nation.

His running mate, Ahmed Datti, urged electorates to get their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), claiming only the Labour Party can solve Nigeria’s problems.

“It is only the party that can change the narrative and eradicate poverty, hunger, and negative developments in the country. We will keep our word. Hold us responsible for our actions and inaction if you vote us into power next year,” said Mr Datti.

He added, “We will move the country from poverty to wealth, stop the killing and start the healing. Nigerians should trust us with their votes.”

(NAN)