Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 Nigerian elections, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent national address regarding the ongoing protests against economic hardship and hunger.
While Obi acknowledged President Tinubu’s decision to address the nation, he expressed disappointment that the speech did not tackle the core issues driving the protests. Obi suggested that the President’s remarks either reflect a disconnect from the realities faced by Nigerians or a deliberate oversight of the situation.
In his response, Obi criticized the lack of empathy in the President’s speech towards those affected by the protests, including those injured or detained. He also condemned the violence against protesters and urged the President to act decisively against criminal elements disrupting the demonstrations.
Obi’s statement, titled “My Response to the President’s Address,” commends Tinubu for addressing the nation but criticizes the speech for failing to address pressing issues such as high living costs, corruption, and governance inefficiencies. Obi called on Tinubu to engage with advisers who provide honest feedback and to focus on addressing critical national problems rather than revisiting past issues.
He also stressed the need for regular updates from the President on the progress of measures to improve the country’s situation, advocating for a concerted effort to address insecurity, corruption, and other major challenges. Obi concluded by urging the President to foster hope and restore faith in Nigeria through effective governance and action.
