Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 election, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stop downplaying the severe hardships facing Nigerian citizens by claiming that such issues are not unique to Nigeria.
In a series of tweets on his X handle, the former Anambra State Governor criticized the government for ignoring the reality of Nigeria being labeled the poverty capital of the world and one of the most insecure nations. Obi stated that the administration needs to take decisive steps to address these critical issues rather than dismissing them.
“The problems facing Nigeria are well-known to all Nigerians. We are the poverty capital of the world, among the most insecure people on earth, among the hungriest, have poor education quality and the highest number of out-of-school children, high infant mortality, corruption, unemployment, the highest income gap between the poor and the rich, high corruption perception index, infrastructure and healthcare challenges, and more,” Obi wrote.
He expressed dismay at government officials who, instead of addressing these problems, make statements suggesting that poverty and hunger are global issues. “It’s disheartening to hear those in charge, who were hired to address our problems, make statements like ‘we are not the only ones struggling with poverty and hunger.’”
Obi called for a thorough plan of action to tackle Nigeria’s unique struggles, emphasizing the need for concrete solutions and a clear vision from those in leadership positions. “We require concrete solutions and a clear vision to address these issues, not comparisons that downplay our circumstances,” he said.
“A true leader provides direction, guidance, solutions, and reassurance in times of crisis. This is the hallmark of visionary leadership and a trait of nations that are making progress and advancing their development,” Obi continued. He likened effective leadership to a pilot who assures passengers of their safety during turbulence, rather than merely announcing it.
He concluded by stating that Nigerians need to trust that their country is in capable hands, working towards a brighter future for all.
