Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has taken a swipe at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his continuous foreign trips, claiming the constant journeys expose the harsh realities of life in Nigeria. Obi argued that if the country were truly conducive, even its president would not be so eager to leave at every opportunity.
“From all indications, our President is not finding his home in Nigeria conducive for a long stay, and it should be concerning to us,” Obi said in a strongly worded statement. “Barely six days after returning from a 15-day trip for what was supposed to be a five-day engagement, he has once again jetted out, this time for his annual holiday in France. This marks nearly his tenth trip to the same country in just two years. It does appear that Mr. President is running away from Nigeria at every slight opportunity.”
The former Anambra State governor expressed dismay that while Tinubu spends a significant part of his presidency abroad, Nigeria is facing crushing economic hardship, widespread insecurity, and worsening global rankings in quality of life. Reports show that more than 79 percent of Nigerians, about 180 million people, are battling food insecurity. Just weeks ago, international agencies declared Nigeria the worst place to give birth and one of the worst countries to live in, with the lowest life expectancy rate worldwide.
Obi criticized Tinubu for neglecting to visit communities devastated by recent tragedies. He pointed out that during the president’s frequent absences, over 50 people were massacred in a mosque and village attack in Katsina State, while more than 60 others were kidnapped. He also referenced the devastating boat mishap in Niger State that killed 60 women and children just yesterday, lamenting Tinubu’s failure to console grieving families before jetting off again.
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“What would it have taken the president to fly less than 30 minutes from Abuja to Niger State in his jet to stand with mourning citizens?” Obi asked. “Where is the compassion for Nigerian lives? No holiday is more important than the people you swore to protect.”
He stressed that at a time of unprecedented hunger, banditry, and insecurity, Nigerians expect their president to show presence, empathy, and leadership. According to him, true leadership is not about luxury trips abroad but about sacrifice and responsibility, improving healthcare, investing in education, lifting millions out of poverty, and protecting the lives of citizens.
Obi’s remarks have set social media abuzz, with many Nigerians echoing his frustrations and questioning why their president appears more comfortable abroad than at home.
