Former Labour Party Presidential Candidate Urges Leaders, Citizens to Uphold Values of Sacrifice, Justice and Peace
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians and leaders across all levels of government to recommit to building a nation that truly reflects the sacrifices made by fallen members of the Armed Forces.
Obi made the call on Thursday in a message shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account to commemorate this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually in honour of military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The former Anambra State governor described the day as a solemn moment of reflection, noting that it serves as a reminder of the bravery, discipline, and selflessness displayed by soldiers who stood on the frontlines to defend Nigeria, often at the cost of their own lives.
“On this solemn day of Armed Forces Remembrance, we honour those who laid down their lives in service to our nation. This annual observance should compel us to recommit ourselves to becoming a country worthy of their sacrifice,” Obi said.
He noted that the legacy of fallen soldiers lives on in the peace and security enjoyed by the citizens they protected, describing them as heroes who endured extreme conditions so others could live without fear.
“There is a saying that a soldier’s true grave is not in the ground but in the hearts and minds of the people they defended, those who slept peacefully while their heroes stood watch,” he stated.
According to Obi, the most meaningful way to honour fallen military personnel is through leadership and citizenship that promote peace, justice, and national development.
“The greatest tribute we can offer our heroes is to live lives that advance peace and progress and to provide leadership that restores hope to the hopeless,” he added.
Obi also paid tribute to the families of fallen soldiers, acknowledging the enduring pain and loss they continue to experience.
“For the families of these heroes, this day is more than a ceremonial date; it is a reminder of an empty seat at the table and a voice that will never be heard again,” he said, assuring them that the nation remains grateful for their loved ones’ sacrifice.
He concluded by praying for the repose of the souls of fallen soldiers and called on Nigerians to sustain a culture of gratitude and remembrance for their service to the nation.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is marked every January 15 in Nigeria to honour members of the Armed Forces who died during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions abroad, and ongoing internal security operations.
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