Peter Obi has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of neglecting the core needs of Nigerians while focusing on political power plays. Speaking during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, June 12, as part of Democracy Day events, the former Labour Party presidential candidate said the current government has abandoned its promises and failed to deliver meaningful progress.
Obi began by remembering the sacrifices of democracy icons like the late MKO Abiola, acknowledging their fight for a better Nigeria. He, however, expressed deep concern about the current state of the country, stating that key indicators such as the economy, healthcare, education, and production have all declined significantly.
He said Nigeria can no longer be seen as a true democracy, pointing out that the same leaders who once fought for democratic rule are now undermining its principles. He described the present state of the nation as “depressing,” adding that security and economic stability have both reached historic lows.
Referencing data, Obi explained that poverty has worsened under the current leadership. According to him, 38.9% of Nigerians were living below the poverty line in 2023, but that number has now jumped to 54%. He added that fewer than 10% of primary healthcare centres in the country are operational. Drawing from his visits across states in the past six months, he shared disturbing experiences in maternity wards where childbirth is a life-threatening event.
Obi also warned about the growing food crisis. He said many Nigerians cannot afford basic meals and are turning to begging for survival. He cited a World Health Organisation report stating that over 20 million Nigerians are now facing mental health challenges, many of them linked to hunger and economic pressure.
He criticised what he described as the government’s reckless borrowing, pointing out that Nigeria’s total debt has soared to N188 trillion without noticeable improvement in the welfare of citizens. Obi blamed this on rising corruption, even accusing the National Assembly of padding the 2025 budget.
In his remarks about electricity, Obi condemned the current situation where citizens pay higher tariffs despite continued poor power supply. He reminded the public of Tinubu’s campaign promise to deliver electricity within four years or not seek re-election, adding that the current reality contradicts that vow.
Obi urged President Tinubu to govern more transparently and return the country to democratic norms. He called on the president to visit states within Nigeria rather than spend extended periods abroad. According to him, direct contact with the people would give the president a clearer picture of their suffering.
He also stressed the importance of restoring security, particularly in rural areas, to revive agriculture and stimulate economic recovery. Obi advised the government to support local manufacturers by reducing production costs to encourage economic growth.
He ended his address by encouraging Nigerians not to lose hope, insisting that the country can still be turned around with the right leadership and focus on the people’s needs.
