Abuja — Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for focusing more on political strategies than on effective governance.
In a recent post on his verified X account, Obi accused the APC-led government of deliberately fueling internal conflicts within opposition parties to gain an unfair advantage in the political arena, rather than dedicating efforts to safeguarding the lives and properties of Nigerian citizens.
Reflecting on a comment made a few weeks ago by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who described Nigeria as “now disgraced,” Obi noted that while many Nigerians were outraged by the remark, it is difficult to dispute given the current state of affairs.
Titled “Now Disgraced Nation,” Obi’s post highlighted alarming security challenges, including the kidnapping of 25 individuals and the killing of a high-ranking general along with other officers within just one week. He also referenced a recent terror attack in Kwara State.
Obi expressed concern that instead of uniting during these critical times, the country is distracted by internal party disputes and divisions. He pointed to crises within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, Social Democratic Party (SDP), and other political groups, alleging that these conflicts are intentionally orchestrated by the government to weaken opposition forces.
Recalling a precedent from the administration of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Obi noted that during a political party crisis, Yar’Adua emphasized the importance of stability across all political parties for the health of Nigeria’s democracy. He highlighted that every party, not just the ruling one, was to be protected and allowed to function within the law.
In contrast, Obi lamented, the current government appears focused on undermining political parties rather than strengthening democratic institutions, aiming to divide the opposition and weaken Nigeria’s democratic fabric.
He concluded by underscoring that in true democracies, opposition parties are respected, elections reflect the will of the people, and governance involves inclusivity for peace and development. Obi reaffirmed his vision, stating, “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
