The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday challenged the former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to choose between Nigeria and desperation.

It said Obi must decide whether he stands with Nigeria or his “ever-shrinking echo chamber of bitterness and resentment.”

Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the spokesman of the state arm of the party, was reacting to Obi’s response to the declaration of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.

Obi had blamed the designation on Nigerian leaders’ incompetence and lack of prudent use of resources.

Reacting, Oladejo, in a statement, said: “Obi must choose, Nigeria or desperation.

“Obi must decide whether he stands with Nigeria or with his ever-shrinking echo chamber of bitterness and resentment. No serious nation is built on the politics of sulking and sensationalism.

“His recent behaviour confirms why Nigerians rejected him, leadership demands maturity, not melodrama and delayed outrage.”

Oladejo said Nigeria will rise with or without the naysayers.

“Nigeria will not bow to those rooting for its challenges to worsen.

“We urge the public to stay focused on the Renewed Hope Agenda and reject individuals who profit politically from national difficulty.

“Nigeria will succeed, despite those praying for its failure and reacting only when forced by public pressure,” he added.