Nigerian Catholic priest, Fr. Kelvin Ugwu, has expressed doubts about the realization of the “New Nigeria” vision being championed by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

In a candid Facebook post, Fr. Ugwu acknowledged his deep respect for Obi, describing him as a rare figure in Nigerian politics and someone who upholds Christian virtues that many believers today have abandoned.

“Peter Obi earned my respect because he is totally different from the politicians we are used to,” Ugwu wrote. “There are many Christian virtues he upholds that many Christians of today have succeeded in watering down.”

Reflecting on his own optimism during the last presidential election, Fr. Ugwu admitted that the outcome forced him to reconsider his hopes for a national transformation.

“The type of new Nigeria that Peter Obi is advocating is not realistically possible. In fact, it is not even seraphically possible.”

He went on to lament the persistent tribalism, religious bias, and partisan sentiments that overshadow national progress, concluding that the ideal Nigeria many dream of may not emerge within this generation.

“The new Nigeria Peter Obi is preaching will remain in the dream world. And even if it does emerge, it won’t be in the lifetime of anyone reading this post today.”

The post has stirred reactions online, with many praising Fr. Ugwu’s honesty while others continue to hold on to hope for a transformed nation.