Abuja, Nigeria – In a scathing interview on Politics Today with Channels Television, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi launched a blistering attack on President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of lacking compassion and mismanaging Nigeria’s resources. Obi, who confirmed his intention to contest the presidency in 2027, outlined his vision for a more empathetic and accountable government.
Obi sharply criticised Tinubu for prioritising ceremonial events over addressing national crises. “Tinubu was commissioning a bus station in Abuja when we lost over 20 soldiers,” Obi remarked, highlighting the president’s apparent detachment from the nation’s security challenges. He further lambasted Tinubu for failing to visit Niger State, where a devastating flood last month claimed over 200 lives and left more than 600 people missing and presumed dead. “From Abuja to Niger State is just a 15-minute flight, and till now, Tinubu has not gone to see the families. He has no compassion,” Obi said.
Obi accused the Tinubu administration of unprecedented borrowing, claiming it has surpassed the combined debt accumulated under Presidents Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and Buhari. “Tinubu’s administration has borrowed more than Yar’Adua, Jonathan, and Buhari’s governments put together,” he stated. He contrasted this with his own record as governor of Anambra State, where he claimed to have left N36 billion in state coffers. “Have you ever seen a thief leave what they can steal?” Obi asked, positioning himself as a leader committed to fighting corruption head-on.
Obi also condemned the government’s spending priorities, particularly its consideration of purchasing a N150 billion presidential jet. “I won’t buy a N150 billion jet when 80% of health centres aren’t functioning,” he declared, recalling his frugality as governor when he used a Peugeot 406 for his first four years in office.
Obi vowed that, if elected president, he would prioritise tackling insecurity from day one. “I will do whatever it takes to secure Nigeria,” he asserted, adding that he would address the criminality plaguing the North by leveraging its vast uncultivated land as an economic asset. “The biggest asset of this country is in the North. If I am president, the North will celebrate me,” he said, expressing his desire to earn the trust of the region.
He also promised to deliver good governance within a single four-year term. “I don’t need a day more than four years if elected as Nigeria’s president,” Obi stated, emphasising efficiency and accountability.
Addressing his political plans, Obi defended his involvement in a coalition, describing it as a strategic move to harness the experience of both successful and failed leaders. “You need the experience of those who have failed and those who have succeeded,” he said, clarifying that his coalition efforts are not anti-party activities. “I’m in the Labour Party, working with a coalition, not engaging in anti-party activity,” he explained.
Obi also reiterated his commitment to contesting the 2027 presidential election, stating, “I’m going to contest for president in 2027.” He expressed confidence in his ability to unite Nigerians and deliver transformative leadership.
Obi questioned the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), asking, “Why is he still being held? It does not make sense to me.” He stressed that his presidency would be marked by fairness and compassion, asserting, “If your people are dying, the president should be ready to die.” Obi positioned himself as a leader who would prioritise the welfare of Nigerians, declaring, “Tinubu’s government lacks compassion. I’ll be a president that cares.”
Obi made it clear that he condemns all forms of agitation that threaten Nigeria’s unity, advocating instead for inclusive governance. “I have condemned everything,” he said, underscoring his commitment to working with all regions and stakeholders to build a stronger nation.
Throughout the interview, Obi emphasised that leadership requires sacrifice and accountability. “As president, I will fight corruption head-on,” he pledged, reiterating that his administration would focus on the needs of the people rather than extravagant displays of power. “The president should be ready to die if the people are dying,” he added, encapsulating his vision of a presidency defined by empathy and dedication.
Obi’s remarks have sparked widespread reactions, with supporters praising his forthrightness and critics questioning the feasibility of his ambitious promises. As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, Obi’s interview has firmly positioned him as a formidable contender in the race for the presidency.
