Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has sharply criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent extended visit to St. Lucia, calling it an example of misplaced priorities at a time when Nigeria is grappling with insecurity and economic crisis.
Speaking on Monday, Obi highlighted the irony of Tinubu spending more nights in the Caribbean island than in most Nigerian states. “In two years, Tinubu has not spent a single night in any Nigerian state apart from Lagos, yet he is set to spend eight nights in St. Lucia — a place smaller than Ajegunle,” Obi said.
He compared St. Lucia’s size to that of Ilorin, Nigeria’s 10th largest city, saying it was unacceptable for the Nigerian President to neglect the rest of the country. “Nigeria is facing war-like conditions, and our leaders are holidaying abroad,” he lamented.
2027 Elections: Obi Pledges One-Term Presidency
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to leading a coalition focused on national rescue and reform. He pledged to serve only one term as president if chosen as the coalition’s candidate, and to hand over power to the North by 2031.
“If any agreement restricts me to a single term, I will honour it and leave office on May 28, 2031,” Obi said, emphasising his belief in equity and regional rotation of power.
Obi also clarified that he is not in any alliance or joint ticket discussions with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any other political figure. “I have not joined in any form of discussion on joint tickets, including with Atiku,” he said.
Focus on Security, Economy, and Governance Reform
Obi stressed that any coalition he is part of must focus on urgent national issues such as insecurity, economic revival, and industrial productivity. “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue and Zamfara, reviving our economy, and feeding our people, count me out,” he declared.
He promised to stabilise Nigeria within two years of taking office. “I will bring stability to Nigeria within two years. Leaders must sit in Nigeria and fix Nigeria,” he added.
Labour Party Crisis and INEC Recognition
Addressing internal challenges within the Labour Party, Obi revealed that the party is actively working to secure the recognition of the Nenadi Usman-led faction by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following a Supreme Court decision.
“We are working around the clock to get INEC to endorse the Nenadi Usman-led Labour Party,” Obi stated.
Non-Violent Electoral Strategy and Governance Blueprint
Obi laid out a peaceful and proactive strategy for the 2027 elections, promising that his campaign would insist on transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
“We will do things differently in 2027. Our approach will be non-violent, and we will ensure the right thing is done before any result is announced in Abuja,” he assured.
In his first 100 days, Obi said he would focus on three critical areas: security, education, and poverty eradication. “We’ll cut costs, fight corruption, and ensure funds are directed into critical sectors. My family will not be involved in governance or corruption,” he said.
Obi also committed to upholding democratic values by preventing political defection. “There will be no defection of elected officials under my leadership. A strong opposition is essential in a democracy.”
Final Words: Leadership by Example
Reflecting on his time as Anambra State governor, Obi said his leadership style has always been hands-on and people-focused. “Wherever there was a crisis in Anambra, I was there physically. Anyone who wants to lead Nigeria must be willing to risk their life for its people.”
He concluded with a sharp rebuke of current political priorities: “While Nigerians are dying in Benue and Borno, our leaders are commissioning bus stops and going on holidays. That must change.”
