The former governor of Anambra state Dr Peter Obi have said that the leadership of a state has nothing to do with academic qualifications of individuals and that Prof. Charles Soludo, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)’s candidate in the Nov 6 Anambra governorship election went off limit when he questioned the academic background of Senator Andy Uba, the All Progressive Congress (APC)’s candidate.
The former governor said this on Arise TV , Tuesday morning programme where he was a guest.
He was reacting to the outcome of Arise TV Anambra governorship election debate which held on Monday where the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA)’s candidate and former CBN governor, professor Charles Soludo was said to have thrown a jibe at the All Progressive Congress (APC)’s candidate in the November 6 Anambra governorship election, Senator Andy Uba, by questioning his academic qualification.
Peter Obi Said the debate is supposed to serve as opportunity for all the candidates to sell their programme to the people of Anambra state, telling them what they would do if they are elected but that it was unfortunate that the candidates rather than focusing on marketing their programmes to the electorates resorted to personal attacks on their opponents.
He made specific reference to the statement made by Prof. Charles Soludo during the debate where he cast a doubt on the academic qualification of senator Andy Uba with particular reference to his degree certificate.
“It was off limits for Soludo to question Andy Uba’s academic background particularly, his degree certificate, when he (Andy Uba) is not applying for the position of a school lecturer”.
He said “we have great leaders such as George Washington, John Major, Abraham Lincoln etc who have never been to college”
He added that what should be considered is whether or not individuals vying for leadership positions have the character, the visionary ideas and behavior to serve the people compassionately and solve the problems of the society.
He also added that “above all these, it is the willingness of the leadership to apply the resources of the states effectively and efficiently to the problems of the states that must be considered”.
He concluded that educational qualifications of individuals though important but it does not guarantee nor is it a measure of good character, integrity and good behavior which are the essential attributes that makes a good leader and that must exhibit examplary character at all times, even in the face of provocation.
The former APGA national chairman, Senator Victor Umeh and APC chieftain and board member, FRSC Hon. Chibuzor Obiakor were also guests on the programme.
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