Abuja, Nigeria – February 14, 2026 — The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has used Valentine’s Day to deliver a passionate message to Nigerians, defining true love for the country as a commitment to free and fair elections, the rejection of corruption, greed, and division, and active devotion to the common good.
In a post shared on his verified X handle on Saturday morning, Obi described love not merely as an emotion but as “love in action” — one that demands sacrifice, discipline, honesty, compassion, respect, and unwavering dedication to what is right.
The former Anambra State Governor wrote:
“My dear young people of Nigeria. This Valentine’s Day, let us celebrate with responsibility.
To all Nigerians, let us renew our love for one another and our nation. Like a living being, a country flourishes when nurtured with care and dedication.
Loving Nigeria means promoting free and fair elections while rejecting vices such as corruption, greed, and division.
Saint Valentine serves as a reminder that love is more than an emotion; it requires sacrifice, discipline, and a commitment to what is right — including honesty, compassion, respect, and devotion to the common good.
Let us show love in action — for each other and for our beloved country.”
Obi’s Valentine message comes at a time of heightened political tension in Nigeria, with discussions around electoral integrity, governance, and national cohesion intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections. His emphasis on free and fair polls and the rejection of corruption and division is widely interpreted as a subtle but pointed critique of the current political environment and a reaffirmation of the ideals that defined his 2023 campaign.
The post has quickly gained traction online, receiving thousands of likes, retweets, and comments within hours. Supporters described it as “timely,” “inspiring,” and “a call to conscience,” while others praised Obi for consistently linking personal values to national transformation.
Among the early reactions were:
“This is leadership that speaks to the soul of Nigeria. Love in action is exactly what we need right now. Thank you, Peter Obi.”
“Valentine from a man who truly loves Nigeria. Free and fair elections must be non-negotiable in 2027.”
“Corruption and greed have held us back for too long. Obi’s words are a reminder that love for country means fighting for what is right.”
The message also resonated with many young Nigerians, particularly those who supported Obi in large numbers during the 2023 election. Several commenters noted that his call for responsibility and sacrifice aligned with the aspirations of the youth who have continued to demand better governance and accountability.
Peter Obi, who has remained one of the most influential voices in opposition politics since 2023, has consistently used national occasions to advocate for ethical leadership, institutional reform, and national healing. His Valentine’s Day message is seen by many as a continuation of that pattern — using a day traditionally associated with personal affection to speak on collective responsibility toward the nation.
As Nigeria marks Valentine’s Day 2026 amid economic challenges, political polarisation, and anticipation for the 2027 polls, Obi’s words have been embraced by many as a timely reminder that genuine love for country must translate into concrete action for justice, transparency, and unity.
The former governor has not yet made any further comments following the post, but it continues to trend nationally and is expected to shape conversations over the weekend.
