The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he described as their persistent prioritisation of political manoeuvring over the urgent task of national security. Obi accused the government of investing more effort in destabilising opposition parties than in safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.
In a post shared on his verified X handle, the former Anambra State governor referenced a recent comment by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who referred to Nigeria as “now disgraced.” Obi noted that although the remark triggered widespread outrage, the country’s deteriorating security situation makes it difficult to dismiss such a description.
He expressed concern that within one week, 25 Nigerians were kidnapped and a senior military officer—along with several others—was killed. He also condemned a fresh terror attack reported in Kwara State, describing it as further evidence of worsening national insecurity.
Obi lamented that instead of rallying the country during a critical period, the political climate has been dominated by internal crises across opposition parties. He alleged that these conflicts in the PDP, Labour Party, SDP and other parties were not organic but “deliberately orchestrated” by a government more interested in weakening rivals than strengthening democracy.
Drawing a contrast with past leadership, Obi recalled a moment under late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who reportedly insisted that all political parties—ruling or opposition—must be allowed to function peacefully within the law. According to Obi, this approach preserved democratic stability and national cohesion.
He argued that the present administration has taken a contrary path, actively disrupting political organisations while the nation grapples with escalating violence. Obi stressed that in functioning democracies, opposition voices are respected, electoral choices are honoured, and governance is inclusive enough to foster unity and prosperity.
He concluded by reaffirming his long-held belief that Nigeria can still rise above its challenges, insisting that “A New Nigeria is possible.”