***Urges former public servants to document experiences, shares tribute to ex-IGP Abubakar
Former public officers should not allow the wealth of experience they acquired in service to fade into retirement but should document and share their knowledge to help Nigeria address its governance and security challenges, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said.
Obi made the call at the public presentation of a book by former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Dikko Abubakar, titled Beyond the Bullet: Policing Terrorism in a Democratic System, at the Police Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja.
He described the publication as a potentially valuable contribution to discussions on policing, national security and the rule of law, expressing confidence that Abubakar’s experience would offer useful lessons for the country.
Although he disclosed that he had yet to read the book, Obi said he expected it to provide insights into the challenges of combating terrorism while upholding professionalism, democratic values and human dignity.
The former Anambra State governor also recalled Abubakar’s accessibility and responsiveness during his tenure as police chief, particularly his willingness to attend to emergencies.
He congratulated the retired police chief on the publication and wished him success in his future endeavours.
For Obi, the book presentation reinforced a broader message about the responsibility of people who have occupied public office: their contribution to national development should not end with their departure from office.
Earlier, he had visited the Clarissan Missionary Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in Onitsha, Anambra State, to celebrate their Golden Jubilee.
The two engagements, though different in purpose, highlighted the importance of service, experience and sustained contributions to society.
Obi urged Nigerians who had served in public institutions to preserve their experiences and make them available to younger generations, saying such knowledge could help improve governance and strengthen national institutions.
He said building a better Nigeria required citizens to contribute beyond their immediate responsibilities and remain committed to the country’s progress.
The NDC candidate expressed hope for a New Nigeria that is “POssible and OK,” echoing the political message associated with his party and its leadership ticket.