According to Mr. Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the January 2027 election, there is honour in serving one’s country, and he has urged young Igbo men to join the military.
The statement was made by Obi during his visit to the residence of Lieutenant General Isaac Chikadibia Obiakor on Friday. He was there to offer condolences to the family during the general’s burial ceremony in Awka, the capital of Anambra State.
The late general was eulogised by Obi as an honest and honourable man who served with honour. However, Obi was disappointed that such soldiers were never honoured for the honour they brought to their positions and the sacrifices they made for their nation.
The UN Peace Keeping Force had an ambassador of Obakor’s calibre, but Obi expressed his dismay that such individuals are underappreciated.
Envision a western world funeral for a general taking place today. Political heavy hitters, including our president, vice president, and chief of army staff, were conspicuously absent when our nation suffered a loss of this magnitude. That is unacceptable. This could have been a gathering spot where we could have shown them the respect they deserved for all they gave up for our country.
Obi emphasised that young people should never be discouraged from participating in such activities. I implore our young people to realise the honour and dignity that come with serving your country,” he admonished. People do not desire to serve in the military or any other force for that matter because those who have already served are frequently disregarded and treated unfairly.
Regarding compensation, I believe our troops and others who have sworn to serve our country deserve the utmost; they should be treated with the utmost respect and decency, and their families should be provided for.