Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his prolonged absence from Nigeria, accusing him of neglecting leadership duties during a period of severe economic hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty.
In a strongly worded statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) today, Obi demanded accountability, asking, "Where is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?" He described the situation as a "national emergency," highlighting statistics showing Nigeria hosting approximately 140 million people in extreme poverty the highest globally, alongside widespread hunger, youth unemployment exceeding 80 million, staggering insecurity, and high infant mortality rates.
Obi pointed out that President Tinubu reportedly spent 196 days abroad in 2025, more time outside the country than within it, amid ongoing crises.
He claimed that since December 2025, Nigerians have received no direct communication from the President, including no New Year address or national broadcast to address the challenges marking the start of 2026.
The former Anambra governor referenced reports of Tinubu opting for a holiday in Europe over the New Year period, contrasting this with leaders in other developing nations who actively engage during crises.
He also cited instances of silence on critical events, such as alleged U.S. military strikes on Nigerian soil, where information came from foreign sources and presidential aides rather than the President himself.
Obi further alleged that earlier in the year, the President used an AI-generated image instead of a face-to-face address.
He argued that true leadership requires presence, direct engagement, and clarity, not just press releases, and warned that withdrawal fosters division and mistrust, making progress impossible.
"This is not governance; it’s neglect," Obi stated, emphasizing that Nigerians deserve reassurance and understanding of the country's state.
He concluded by reaffirming his belief that "A New Nigeria is not just POssible; it is essential."
The statement comes amid ongoing debates over the President's foreign travels, including a reported end-of-year trip to Europe starting December 28, 2025, ahead of an official engagement in Abu Dhabi.
While the Presidency has described some trips as "working vacations," critics, including opposition figures, have labeled them insensitive given domestic challenges.
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