Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed his feeling on the attitude of his followers in terms of their responses to the views of other people.
He enjoined them to be tolerant of such and learn from others’ opinions.
Obi’s followers, especially youths who see hope in his philosophy and stand on contradictions that have crippled the country, have largely been harsh at those who support other candidates or criticise him.
One of the most recent victims in this regard is popular pastor, Poju Oyemade, who, following a massive harsh responses, had to delete a tweet in which he gave an admonition on the need to be scientific when investing faith in a project.
In some tweets on Sunday, however, Obi said: “I sincerely thank my supporters for believing in me and my commitment to building a united, secure and well-functioning Nigeria. However, I appeal once more that we should be tolerant of other people’s views, dissent and divergent opinions & possibly learn from them.
“While the frustration and anger in the country (are) understandable, we must strive to channel that energy positively in ways that will earn the support and collaboration of others.
“Even as our message continues to gain broad acceptance, there are some we still need to work to convince. In expressing ourselves, we should do so with grace so as not to precipitately shut doors to future collaborations on sustainable nation-building. -PO.”
What Oyemade said:
“Faith is not just blind belief or hoping for a miracle. Faith sees. Faith has her eyes opened and possesses the evidence upon which it builds its belief. Faith prepares long, sometimes for years just as Joseph did for the years of famine. Faith counts the cost before embarking.
“Without having real evidence upon which you are acting nor preparation for the task, recognising real obstacles that lie ahead and making concrete plans, one is just being delusional about the outcome. The enthusiasm of the youth must not be wasted on poorly planned projects.
“Noah spent months/years planning for the flood & he was operating in faith. Jesus said no man goes to battle without taking stock first nor lays the foundation of a tower without counting the cost first lest he will be mocked. Our faith is intelligent it doesn’t live in denial.”
