Metuh @ 60: “I Have Forgiven My Persecutors; Let’s Build Nigeria”
By: NaijaEnquirer Staff
Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, tolerance and collective responsibility as the nation confronts deepening political and socio-economic challenges.Speaking at a press conference in Abuja to mark his 60th birthday, Metuh reflected on a series of personal crises he experienced during past leap years including a major road accident in 1992, a gunshot injury from armed robbers in 1996, his arrest and prosecution in 2016, and incarceration in 2020. He said 2024 is the first leap year in which he faced no tragedy, expressing gratitude to God for sustaining his life.
“I Have Forgiven Everyone”
Marking the milestone age, Metuh said he has completely forgiven all those involved in the events he described as his persecution — including the trial judge, the EFCC and media organisations whose reports contributed to public condemnation.
“If God has kept me alive at 60, why should I not forgive others?” he said.
Clarifies ₦400 million allegation
Addressing the longstanding controversy over an alleged missing ₦400 million, Metuh insisted that no money was missing. He explained that the funds were approved by the PDP-led government ahead of the 2015 elections to manage communication around insecurity and insurgency. According to him, the assignment — which involved the late Chief Tony Anenih and several media professionals — was fully documented and acknowledged by individuals in the current administration.
A call for tolerance in politics
Metuh urged political leaders to accommodate dissent, especially from young people on social media. He argued that strong criticism should not lead to arrests, saying democracy thrives when different perspectives are allowed to flourish.
He recalled how he once harshly criticised Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he (Metuh) served as opposition spokesman, yet later received personal support from Tinubu while in prison — a gesture he described as a reminder of the importance of political maturity and tolerance.
Views on constitutional reform
Commenting on the ongoing constitutional review process, Metuh expressed doubts about the likelihood of far-reaching changes but suggested a single five- or six-year presidential term and a rotational presidency across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
He encouraged opposition parties — including the PDP, Labour Party, ADC and YPP — to strengthen their oversight role, noting that constructive opposition is essential to democracy.
Security: A collective responsibility
Metuh urged citizens to support security agencies by sharing information and cooperating in the fight against insecurity, emphasising that national security cannot be left solely to government institutions.
Quiet birthday celebration
He said his 60th birthday activities will be low-key, focusing on charitable outreach to widows, persons with disabilities, the elderly, prisoners, clergy members and young entrepreneurs.
On Nnamdi Kanu
Metuh disclosed that he developed a close relationship with IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu while both were in Kuje Prison. He said he and others have been quietly engaging authorities on the matter, insisting that such issues are best resolved through private dialogue rather than public agitation.
A message to Nigerians
Ending his address, Metuh urged Nigerians to embrace tolerance, forbearance and unity as the country navigates a difficult period. He expressed hope that national healing is possible if citizens choose dialogue over division.
