Former Anambra State governor and opposition leader, Peter Obi, has issued a scathing critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, describing Nigeria's current state as a troubling national emergency. Obi's remarks come as President Tinubu attends the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the United Arab Emirates.
A Scathing Critique of Presidential Absence
In a strongly-worded statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page on Monday, January 12, 2026, Obi lamented the perceived lack of leadership from the nation's commander-in-chief. He asserted that since December 2025, Nigerians have not heard directly from their president, despite facing severe multidimensional crises.
The 64-year-old politician painted a grim picture of the nation's realities, stating: "We are grappling with one of the hungriest populations globally, staggering insecurity, an unemployment rate exceeding 80 million among our youth, and one of the worst places to be born, with infant mortality rates worse than those of a nation seven times our size."
Holiday Amidst Hunger and Anxiety
Obi specifically targeted the president's activities during the critical New Year period. He referenced reports indicating that President Tinubu opted for a holiday in Europe while the nation entered 2026 marked by widespread hunger, anxiety, and uncertainty.
"There was no New Year address, no national broadcast, no leadership voice to provide reassurance or guidance," Obi stated, highlighting the stark contrast with leaders in other developing nations who, he claims, step up visibly during times of crisis.
Silence on Critical National Issues
The Labour Party stalwart turned African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain further criticised the administration's communication following significant events. He pointed to the instance of U.S. military strikes on Nigerian soil, after which the president remained silent.
"Instead of directly addressing the nation, Nigerians learned about these critical events from foreign media, American officials, and the vague communications from the presidency’s aides known for their propaganda, rather than from their own leader," Obi wrote, characterising this approach as neglect rather than governance.
A Direct Appeal for Presidential Presence
Peter Obi's message culminated in a direct appeal to President Tinubu. He emphasised that Nigerians are not demanding perfection but are insisting on presidential presence and clear communication.
"We are not asking for perfection; we demand presence," he declared. "Nigerians are eager to hear from their President through direct media briefings. They deserve to understand the state of their country. You cannot run Nigeria like a personal business or a private club; it is imperative to rebuild and grow our economy through unity and clarity."
This latest critique forms part of Obi's continued political engagement. Legit.ng earlier reported that Obi recently met with former military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), as part of his consultations on national interest. Their discussion reportedly centred on national unity, security, and improving the lives of citizens.
