By Emmanuel Onyedika
The presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, on Tuesday urged Nigerians to embrace positive change and live lives worthy of emulation, stressing that the country must reflect on the kind of leadership and values it upholds.
Obi made the remarks at a Service of Songs held in Lagos in honour of the late Mrs. Nkechi Stella Rhodes-Vivour, mother of Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain and Lagos governorship candidate.
Speaking at the event, the former Anambra State governor said the passing of good people should serve as a reminder for those still alive to become better citizens. “I always say if God was looking for bad people in Nigeria, He would be overwhelmed. So, if He takes the good ones, it is perhaps to allow those who are remaining to change their ways,” Obi remarked.
He prayed for God’s comfort for the Rhodes-Vivour family and urged Nigerians to live lives that would earn them honour and positive remembrance after death.
Obi’s appearance at the memorial came weeks after Mrs. Rhodes-Vivour’s passing was announced, following criticism from some supporters who had questioned his silence over the bereavement.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour announced his mother’s death on July 13, describing her as a devoted wife, loving mother, and grandmother whose life was marked by compassion, kindness, and selfless service.
The memorial service also reunited Obi and Rhodes-Vivour, who were key figures in the Labour Party’s 2023 electoral campaign in Lagos before taking different political paths ahead of the 2027 general election. While both initially aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after leaving Labour, Obi later emerged as the NDC’s presidential candidate, while Rhodes-Vivour remained in the ADC to pursue his Lagos ambitions.
The event drew political associates, family members, and supporters who paid glowing tributes to the late matriarch, describing her life as one of humility, service, and compassion.