The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has launched a scathing critique of President Bola Tinubu's administration, accusing it of prioritizing political maneuvering over addressing the pressing needs of Nigerians.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday to commemorate the 2025 Democracy Day, Obi expressed concern that political activities in the country over the past two years appear more focused on the next general election rather than solving current problems.
Democracy Under Threat
After paying tribute to the late MKO Abiola for his sacrifice for democracy, Obi delivered a stark assessment of Nigeria's current situation.
"It is deeply troubling that under the current administration, Nigeria cannot be said to be a democracy, even though the current president was part of the struggle to bring back democracy," Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor described the state of the nation as "depressing," pointing to deteriorating conditions in the economy, security, healthcare, education, and production sectors.
Worsening Economic Conditions
Obi highlighted alarming statistics about Nigeria's economic decline under the current administration:
Poverty rates have jumped from 38.9% in 2023 to 54% currently
Less than 10% of primary healthcare centers across the country are functioning
Maternal healthcare is in crisis, with childbirth described as a "50/50 chance of survival for both mother and child"
Food insecurity has reached an all-time high, forcing many into professional begging
"Instead of the current administration finding succour to the economic challenges, it has borrowed so much money that Nigeria's debt is now N188 trillion," Obi lamented, adding that the World Health Organisation has reported over 20 million Nigerians suffering from mental health issues.
Corruption and Failed Promises
The Labour Party leader accused the administration of rampant corruption, citing the National Assembly's alleged padding of the 2025 budget. He also pointed to unfulfilled campaign promises, particularly regarding electricity.
"Nigerians now pay more tariffs for more darkness. This is against the president's promise during his campaign, where he said if he didn't give Nigerians power in four years, they should not vote for him for a second term," Obi noted.
He further criticized Tinubu for spending approximately 150 days outside the country in his two years in office, urging him to "stop governance by remote control" and personally witness the hardships Nigerians are facing.
Obi called on the president to uphold the rule of law and ensure transparency to restore Nigeria's democratic credentials.
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