STEPHEN CHUKWUEMEKA

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Our National Tragedies are Resources for National Transformation

I have received many calls and text messages from patriotic Nigerians who were annoyed that an Arise News anchor wanted me to answer questions about the 1966 coups, which were national tragedies. I reassured those patriots that, as a presidential candidate, I am ready and able to answer any questions about anything relating to Nigeria. I have a commitment to serve the people, not to hide from them.

As I travel across Nigeria and listen to Nigerians of all ethnic and religious identities, I have had opportunities to reflect on the many tragedies we have experienced in Nigeria, including the 1966 coups, the civil war, and the various mass violence that have plagued different parts of the country.

My view is that we could have avoided these tragedies if we had entrenched and implemented laws justly. These tragedies are the result of leadership failure. It is our responsibility to understand these failures and fix them.
The failure of leadership to guarantee all its citizens equal rights and freedoms, and to enforce the fundamental rights in the constitution without fear or favour.
We must focus on learning from our past. Mistakes in history are not fatal. They can become opportunities for transformation.

This happened in Japan. The Japanese miracle that took place between 1920 and 1970 was a product of patriotic leaders who used the Japanese trauma of colonial rule to drive miraculous economic development. South Korea followed Japan by weaponising cruel experiences under Japan to develop a policy framework of a developmental state, and became an economic giant under the inspiration of General Park from 1960. The same applies to China under Deng Xiaoping, who reinvented China from the tragedies of Chairman Mao’s Cultural Revolution and the many deaths of that ill-fated policy. Today, China is the second-largest economy in the world. What a transformation. That is our vision. That should also be our history.

For me, my responsibility as Nigerian President is to turn the pains and tragedies of the past into opportunities to make Nigeria united, stable, and prosperous.
We need a leadership that is not trapped in the past, a leadership that focuses on what binds us together rather than what divides us. At this point, we need a leader who believes in the destiny and future of Nigeria, a leader who publicly proclaims that all parts of Nigeria abound in human and natural resources, and that all parts of Nigeria can become productive and prosperous.

The difference in human history is having leaders who do not maximise those pasts for selfish ambition but leverage them to build a prosperous future for all.
Even in Africa, we can learn from Rwanda on how a recent terrible experience is being used to advance national unity and prosperity. We can do the same for Nigeria.

I am ready to speak about what the voters consider important. I am ready to comfort and console. I am ready to lead from the front as we work to turn away from the ugly past and into a future where no Nigerian will suffer on account of his or her ethnicity, religion, or social pedigree. Our past is important, but our past is not our destiny. Our future is what we do with our past. Our past is our resource for national transformation. We are ready to transform Nigeria.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

I am deeply saddened by the killing of social media commentator, Ibrahim Khalil Dan Shagamu, in his home in Kano.

No disagreement, criticism, or neighbourhood dispute can ever justify the taking of a human life. Those who speak up, express their opinions, or hold different views must not be made to live in fear.

I urge the Kano State Government and the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into this tragic incident and ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.

Our Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the fundamental right to freedom of expression. That right must be protected for all, regardless of our differences.

My heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, colleagues, and followers. May Almighty God grant him eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength and comfort to bear this painful loss. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

After My Visits to Benue and Plateau.

After returning to Abuja on 8th September 2026, following our visits to Benue and Plateau States, I travelled to Europe, first to Germany and then to the United Kingdom. There, I participated in a series of high-level meetings addressing issues of fundamental importance to Nigeria’s future.

Our conversations addressed democracy and electoral integrity, the escalating challenge of poverty, education, corruption, healthcare, and, above all, practical ways to improve the lives and preserve the dignity of our people.

I was especially encouraged by the sincere readiness of our international partners to support Nigeria, particularly in the critically important area of education. I have consistently emphasised that education is the most valuable investment we can make in our people, because no nation can create a prosperous and sustainable future without developing the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of its citizens.

We must intentionally transition Nigeria from consumption to production, from dependence to productivity, from wasteful practices to responsible resource management, and from division to a common national purpose.

Together, we can create a Nigeria in which every child receives a quality education, democracy genuinely embodies the people’s will, healthcare is within reach, public resources are administered responsibly, and every Nigerian enjoys a fair chance to lead a dignified and productive life.

A New Nigeria Is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE

I have just learnt the sad news of the death of Professor Albert Alos, former Vice-Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Lekki, Lagos, and former Director-General of the prestigious Lagos Business School (LBS). He died after a brief illness.

I first met Prof. Alos when I was attending a Chief Executive Programme at Lagos Business School (LBS) over 20 years ago.

I am deeply saddened by the death of Prof. Alos. He was a humble and unassuming gentleman, with a keen ear for listening to the problems of others and a remarkable ability to offer thoughtful and practical solutions.

Among my many recollections of him, one stands out: Prof. Alos was the first person I met who taught the importance of character and integrity and, more importantly, truly lived by those virtues. He firmly believed that Nigeria could be rescued from the woods through character, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.

His death is a great loss to the academic community, the business world, and, indeed, Nigeria.

May God Almighty, who called him home, grant him eternal rest in His kingdom. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

CONGRATULATIONS TO SENATOR HENRY SERIAKE DICKSON

I warmly congratulate my dear brother and leader of our great party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Distinguished Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, on his recognition by Leadership Newspaper as Politician of the Year.

Senator Dickson is a seasoned politician and public servant whose experience cuts across party administration, the legislature, and the executive arm of government.

I believe this recognition is not only a testament to his years of service but will also further spur him to greater commitment as we work together towards building a political platform capable of offering Nigerians the leadership that is needed to move the country forward.

Once again, congratulations to my dear brother and leader, Distinguished Senator Henry Seriake Dickson @iamHSDickson , on this well-deserved recognition.

A new Nigeria is POssible and Nigeria will be OK. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

MY ENGAGEMENTS ACROSS THREE STATES-KOGI, BENUE, AND ENUGU

After my engagements in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Friday, 4th September, and yesterday, 5th September, I travelled to Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State. There, alongside our Kogi East Senatorial Candidate, High Chief Peter Ameh, I met with stakeholders and our party faithful.

I reaffirmed our commitment to addressing the major challenges facing our people, especially insecurity, healthcare, education, employment, and poverty alleviation. I also assured our large base of supporters that these issues would remain central to our efforts.

We urged our supporters to remain dedicated to the democratic process, turn out in large numbers to vote, and, above all, safeguard and defend their votes from the polling unit through the final declaration of results.

I also made brief visits to Otukpa in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State and Obollo Afor in Enugu State. During these stops, we continued engaging with our people, including traders operating along these routes. I heard their concerns and assured them that, under my leadership, they would have a government that recognises their difficulties, prioritises their welfare, and provides an environment in which their businesses can grow.

Across all these engagements, the concerns expressed by our people remain essentially the same. They seek security in their communities, meaningful employment opportunities for our youths, access to properly functioning hospitals and schools for their children, and the means and resources to lead decent, dignified lives.

These are not excessive demands. They represent the basic expectations citizens hold of a government dedicated to their welfare.

Following these engagements, I travelled to Okpo, Olamaboro LGA, Kogi State, where I participated in the 65th birthday celebration of a highly respected servant of God, Evangelist Sunday Oguche. I also had the privilege of engaging with guests at the event and members of the church.

Evangelist Oguche is not merely a preacher of the Gospel; he is also a dedicated community builder who has committed himself to serving God and making a positive difference in the lives of his people.

I extend my heartfelt prayers and very best wishes to him as he marks this significant milestone. May God continue to strengthen him, grant him sound health, and bless him with many more productive years in His service.

I ended the day with a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Igwe Willy Ezugwu, Eze Ka Eze I of Ideke Land, and Eze Ogbozalla III of Opi Kingdom, Nsukka, Enugu State.

His Royal Majesty is a true Nigerian with a profound belief in the future of our country. He graciously offered prayers and bestowed his royal blessings upon me. I am profoundly thankful for his fatherly counsel, encouragement, and prayers.

As we move forward on this journey, our message remains unequivocal: Nigeria can succeed, and government can be made to serve its people.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

FROM WHAT WE BUILT TO WHAT WE LOST: LESSONS FROM NIGERIA’S HISTORY

Today, I attended the Daily Times Newspaper’s 100th anniversary celebration in Abuja. The occasion brought back fond memories of my younger days, when I would visit the newspaper stand at 57 Old Market Road, Onitsha, opposite the General Post Office, simply to read the front pages of the newspapers.

I was particularly interested in stories about governance, our economy, and Nigeria’s development. Those early encounters with newspapers helped shape my interest in understanding our country and the choices that have shaped our journey as a nation.

At the exhibition, I took time to go through some of the old publications. What I saw was both fascinating and deeply sobering.

One of the most striking things I came across was an advertisement for the Nigerian Shipping Line. In 1959, it had 6 ships; by 1960, it had 8; and by 1961, it had grown to 10 ships.

Today, more than six decades later, the Nigerian Shipping Line has no ships.

I also read about Nigerian Airways, which began operations in 1958 and, by 1980, had grown into one of Africa’s leading airlines, with a fleet of over 30 aircraft and direct flights to London, New York, Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, and other international destinations. At one point, it even operated a Boeing 747, one of the largest aircraft of its time.

Sadly, Nigerian Airways eventually ceased operations in 2003.

The comparison with Emirates is particularly instructive. Nigerian Airways had already developed a substantial fleet before Emirates commenced operations in 1985 with just two leased aircraft. Today, Emirates operates a fleet of more than 250 aircraft, while the Nigerian national airline of that era no longer exists.

These are not merely stories from old newspapers. They are reminders of what Nigeria once built, what our people were capable of achieving, and, most importantly, what we failed to sustain.

The tragedy is not that these institutions belonged to a different era. The tragedy is that a country blessed with enormous human and material resources allowed many of its once-promising institutions to decline and disappear through years of poor leadership, mismanagement, corruption, and weak accountability.

Even more painful is the fact that while many of our institutions have weakened or disappeared, corruption seems to have remained one of the few things that has continued to grow.

We must ask ourselves: Why did institutions that once worked begin to fail? Why have countries that started behind us overtaken us? Why have we repeatedly failed to preserve the institutions and investments created by previous generations? The answers must guide the choices we make today.

I commend Mr. Fidelis Anosike and his team for keeping the Daily Times legacy alive and, importantly, preserving an important part of Nigeria’s history for present and future generations.

A nation that forgets its history risks repeating its mistakes. We must remember where we came from, honestly examine what went wrong, learn from both our successes and failures, and build institutions that can outlive individual leaders and political administrations. Nigeria is not condemned to decline.

We can rebuild our institutions. We can restore confidence in government. We can create an economy that produces rather than merely consumes. We can build enterprises that compete globally. And we can create a country where the next generation inherits stronger institutions, greater opportunities, and a better quality of life than the generation before it.

The Nigeria we desire is possible. But it requires leadership anchored on competence, accountability, prudence, integrity, and service. We must stop celebrating what Nigeria used to be and start rebuilding what Nigeria can become.

The journey to rebuild Nigeria must begin now.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

MY VISIT TO THE NIGERIA LABOUR CONGRESS

Today, I visited the headquarters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Abuja to condole with the leadership, led by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, over the painful loss of the NLC General Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, Esq.

The news of Comrade Emmanuel’s passing came to me as a rude shock. He was a good friend, a gentleman, and a principled advocate for the rights, dignity, and welfare of Nigerian workers.

His commitment to the labour movement and his unwavering belief in the cause of workers made him a remarkable man. He lived a life of service, and his contributions to the labour movement will remain part of his enduring legacy.

I am consoled by the knowledge that Comrade Emmanuel lived an exemplary life and dedicated himself to a cause greater than himself. His legacy of service, courage, and commitment will continue to inspire the younger generation.

At this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with his family, colleagues, friends, the entire NLC family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May God Almighty grant his family the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss, and may He grant Comrade Emmanuel eternal rest. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

MY VISIT TO THE CANADIAN HIGH COMMISSION

Yesterday, at the invitation of the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria, I had the privilege of meeting with the Head of the commission and his team.

Our discussions focused on Nigeria’s forthcoming elections and Canada’s continued support for strengthening our democratic processes. We also exchanged views on trade and investment, economic development, education, and the need for affirmative measures to increase women’s participation and representation in politics.

I reiterated my conviction that a well-governed, peaceful, stable, and prosperous Nigeria is firmly in Canada’s strategic interest. A Nigeria that works for its people will not only unlock the enormous potential of our nation but also create greater opportunities for deeper partnership between Nigeria, Canada, and the wider African continent.

We also discussed the urgent need to strengthen our democratic institutions, deepen citizen participation, and build a political system where every Nigerian, regardless of gender, background, or circumstance, has a meaningful opportunity to contribute to governance.

I look forward to continued engagement with Canada’s diplomatic and business community as we collectively pursue partnerships that can contribute to a more prosperous, secure, and inclusive Nigeria.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

65 FREE SURGERIES FOR 65 CHILDREN

Yesterday, I attended the final follow-up clinic and appreciation programme at Mother Mary Hospital, Isolo, Lagos, following the successful completion of 65 free surgeries for children to mark my 65th birthday.

I am deeply grateful to God Almighty for guiding the medical team throughout the process and for granting all 65 children safe and successful surgeries.

The surgeries, led by Dr Folaseye Adebayo and her dedicated team, included adenotonsillectomy. This procedure removes enlarged or chronically infected tonsils and adenoids, which can cause breathing difficulties, recurrent infections, and sleep-related problems in children.

What made the occasion particularly touching was listening to parents share their testimonies and hearing how these procedures have improved their children’s health and quality of life.

My profound appreciation goes to @DrFolaseye Adebayo and her entire team, the hospital management, the parents, and everyone who contributed to making this initiative possible.

For me, birthdays are not merely occasions for celebration. They are opportunities to give back, touch lives, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

I thank God for the privilege of being part of this initiative and, most importantly, for the gift of 65 healthy and hopeful children.

May God continue to bless all those who dedicate their lives to saving and improving the lives of others.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

SENATOR KWANKWASO VISITS THE OBIDIENT HEADQUARTERS

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of hosting my dear elder brother and our vice presidential candidate, His Excellency, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, alongside the gubernatorial, senatorial, and other candidates of our great party, the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), from various states across the country, at the Obidient Headquarters in Abuja.

Our discussions focused primarily on strategies to expand and deepen the reach of our party and take our message of national redemption to rural communities and the hinterlands.

I reassured our candidates of my continued support in their respective states and constituencies. I also reaffirmed my commitment to working with them and undertaking the necessary groundwork to secure victory for our party.

My partnership with His Excellency Senator Rabiu Musa @KwankwasoRM is a partnership to rescue Nigeria from the calamitous and ineffective leadership that has brought our country to its present condition.

Our commitment is to commence lifting vulnerable Nigerians out of poverty, reduce the number of out-of-school children, support small and medium-sized businesses, secure our nation, unite our people, and move Nigeria from consumption to production.

A New Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

MY VISIT TO EDA PLAZA, JABI

Yesterday, I visited Eda Plaza in Jabi, Abuja, where more than 45 traders lost their shops to the recent inferno that gutted part of the complex.

I met with some of the affected traders, many of whom were still clearing the debris and trying to salvage whatever could be recovered from the ruins. I expressed my deepest sympathy to them and pledged my support, however modest, as they begin the difficult journey of rebuilding their livelihoods.

For many of these traders, their shops represent years of hard work, savings, sacrifice and hope. What was lost is therefore far more than physical structures and merchandise; livelihoods have been disrupted, dreams have been set back, and families have been placed under additional hardship.

My consistent position has been that government must always care for its people, particularly in moments of difficulty and vulnerability. In times like this, leadership must be measured not only by what government builds, but also by how it stands with citizens when they lose what they have painstakingly built.

I pray that God Almighty grants the affected traders the strength, resources and opportunity to recover from this painful loss, and that their businesses and livelihoods will be restored.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

A President and the Endless Question of His Past

As a citizen of no other country, who has never sought foreign citizenship even when doing so became fashionable, my loyalty to Nigeria and my faith in her destiny remain unshaken.

Yesterday, 30th of August, being Sunday, I fervently prayed for our nation and for those entrusted with the solemn responsibility of leadership. I found myself deeply saddened by the direction in which our country is heading.

It is profoundly embarrassing that we have reached a point where a sitting President is asking a foreign court to withhold records concerning his past, particularly records relating to matters of legitimate public interest.

Leadership, in my humble view, demands the courage and humility to confront one’s history — to acknowledge mistakes, provide candid explanations where questions arise, and, where necessary, apologise and seek forgiveness. True authority is strengthened, not diminished, when a leader accepts responsibility rather than seeks to shield uncomfortable aspects of the past from legitimate scrutiny.

This becomes particularly important when questions concern educational credentials. Issues surrounding foundational schooling — primary and secondary — should not remain unresolved or be addressed primarily through legal proceedings. Nigerians deserve clear, credible, and verifiable explanations, especially when such had been submitted in the past.

My deepest concern is the example this sets for more than 200 million Nigerians, particularly the over 30 million young people in schools. The nation’s highest office should exemplify integrity, accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership.

An imperfect past is part of the human condition. What matters is the willingness to confront it with humility, honesty and deep apology, to make amends where necessary and, when circumstances so demand, to place the interests of the nation above personal ambition.

When will our political class fully appreciate that individual ambitions are temporary, while the nation endures? The Presidency is an office held for a season; the moral standards established by those who occupy it can influence generations.

Nigeria is greater than any one person, and the integrity of the Republic must always come before the interests of the individual.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Celebrating My Eldest Brother at 75

Today, 30th August 2026, I celebrate my eldest brother, Dominic Ositadimma Obi, who turns 75. I celebrate him not merely because he is my elder brother or because of his age, but because he is an exemplary human being.

When I was Governor of Anambra State for eight years, he never came to my office or the Governor’s Lodge for a day seeking favours, as many might have expected. He is a planner and contractor who builds homes for people, yet not once did he ask me for a government contract.

Whenever we met, he would warmly embrace me and tell me that he was fine. He would then solemnly remind me to keep doing what I promised the people and never bring a bad name to the family and my community. He would tell me that whatever difficulties he was going through, many others were worse off, and that I should do my best for society.

I later came to understand that this was not peculiar to him alone. My family members had actually held a meeting and resolved that none of them would take advantage of my position as Governor. They decided that whatever good name I was building for the Obi family and Agulu must be protected. The same principle extended to my children.

Today, at 75, my beloved brother remains deeply concerned about Nigeria. Whenever we speak, he is full of prayers and good wishes. He constantly reminds me that if I have the opportunity to serve Nigeria, I should do so with honesty, integrity, and the interest of the people at heart.

Brother Dom, I thank God for the gift of your life and for the example you have set for our family. Your integrity, humility, contentment, and sense of responsibility are qualities worthy of celebration.

May God Almighty, who has graciously been with you all these years, grant you good health, His abundant grace, and blessings.

Happy 75th birthday, my dearest brother. -PO

[Atedo Peterside @AtedoPeterside]

Further to my #OsunGuber2026 election night tweet reproduced (Image 4), I still believe that @inecnigeria owes Nigerians clear answers to 3 critical questions:

1. Why did result transmission freeze for nearly 3 hours (20:48 hrs–23:42 hrs ) on the Election night? Why the sudden rush of 236 results in less than 1 minute right after that (Image 1)?
2. Why were 51 polling unit results uploaded ONLY after declaring a winner (Image 2)?
3. Why are 11 polling unit results still missing on IReV even TODAY (Image 3)?

#GoNigeria
#Osunvotes2026

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Celebrating the Hausa Community and Its Contributions to Nigeria.

As International Hausa Day, I warmly congratulate the Hausa community across Nigeria as they observe their Day in Daura, Katsina State. The Hausa people have made significant and lasting contributions to the growth and development of our nation, enriching Nigeria through their culture, traditions, enterprise, agriculture, scholarship, public service, and dedication to community.

This celebration is not only a moment to honor a proud heritage but also an opportunity to reaffirm the bonds that unite us as Nigerians. Our diversity remains one of our greatest strengths, and our shared future depends on recognizing and respecting the contributions of every community.

As you celebrate in Katsina, I wish you peace, prosperity, and a renewed sense of hope. May this occasion bolster our unity and inspire us to build a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of ethnicity or background, has equal opportunities to flourish.

Congratulations and best wishes to the Hausa community. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Mourning the Loss of Emmanuel Ugboaja

I have lost a friend, a committed patriot, and a passionate advocate for the interests of workers and the building of a better Nigeria, Mr. Emmanuel Ugboaja.

I first came across Emmanuel during my time in the Labour Party, and our paths crossed on several occasions thereafter. I was struck by his deep commitment to the welfare of workers, his belief in justice and fairness, and his desire to see a Nigeria where every citizen can live and work with dignity.

Emmanuel was not one to remain indifferent to the challenges facing ordinary Nigerians. He spoke with conviction and consistently demonstrated a genuine concern for the people, particularly workers whose contributions to the nation are often overlooked.

His passing is a painful loss to his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider community of people who shared his ideals. Nigeria has lost a man who believed in the possibility of a better country and was willing to contribute to making that possibility a reality.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who mourn this great loss. May God grant his loved ones the strength to bear this difficult moment and grant Emmanuel Ugboaja eternal rest.

May his soul rest in peace. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Worrisome Abduction Story From Borgu, Niger State

I am deeply disturbed by the reports of the mass abduction of Nigerians in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, following attacks on communities including Dekara and the abduction of worshippers during Juma’at prayers.

Reports indicate that as many as 600 people, predominantly women, children and elderly Nigerians, may have been taken. The exact number is still being verified. Tragically, reports also indicate that about 30 people may have been killed.

This is one case too many.

The fact that Nigerians can be attacked in broad daylight, in their place of worship, abducted in such numbers and taken into the forests should shake the conscience of every Nigerian and compel urgent action from government.

Our people are being left vulnerable while the political class appears increasingly consumed by the next election.

Elections will come and go, but the lives of Nigerians cannot be recovered once lost.

Government must treat this as an emergency: deploy overwhelming intelligence-led security operations, rescue every person in captivity, secure the affected communities and dismantle the networks and enclaves enabling these terrorists to operate.

The Police complain that difficult terrain and a collapsed bridge hampered the initial rescue response in Borgu, which supports my consistent plea to concentrate on repairs of existing infrastructure.

I stand with the Niger State Government, the good people of Niger State and the families of those abducted and killed. We must bring our people home and restore the confidence that government exists to protect them.

A New Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Dolly Parton: The Compassion That Came From Humble Beginnings.

There is something deeply moving about Dolly Parton that goes beyond her extraordinary music. For those of us who admire her, perhaps the most enduring part of her story is not the fame, the records, the awards or the wealth, but the person she remained after all of them.

Dolly Parton’s greatness, to me, goes far beyond her extraordinary music. It is in the person she remained despite the fame, wealth and success. She came from poverty in rural Tennessee, from a large, humble family with little materially but rich in love, faith, resilience and family values. She never seemed to forget those beginnings. Instead, she carried them into her music and her life.

That is why her songs resonate so deeply. She sang about love, heartbreak, hardship, loneliness, hope and the struggles of ordinary people—not merely as a performer, but as someone who understood them. Her music gave dignity to people who were often overlooked.

Her compassion seemed to flow naturally from her upbringing. Even at the height of her success, she retained a remarkable warmth, humility and generosity, particularly toward children, the poor and those in need.

I admire Dolly Parton not simply because she became a great musician, but because success never made her forget where she came from. She turned her humble beginnings into music (Coat of Many Colors) that comforted millions and a life that continues to inspire.

For me, that is her greatest song: the sound of a good heart that never forgot its roots.

May God Almighty, who made her such a compassionate soul, grant her soul eternal rest. -PO

[Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, CGoF @ChidiOdinkalu]

Campaign season has barely started & all the @OfficialAPCNg mass murderers cannot wait to unleash their #MurderMachines.

@OfficialDSSNG meanwhile is busy monitorint village WhatsApp group in Shendam. & @PoliceNG's @TunjiDisu1 cld be unlooking.

https://t.co/q1lXIyVjyj