Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on President Bola Tinubu to retire from active politics ahead of the 2027 elections, arguing that the President is “tired” and no longer capable of addressing Nigeria’s deepening economic and security crises.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday Politics with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels Television, Obi contrasted Tinubu’s past performance as governor of Lagos State with his current leadership, which he said has failed to meet Nigeria’s urgent needs.
“The Bola Tinubu that was governor is not the one that is president today. He’s tired. He should be allowed to retire in peace and go home,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor warned that Nigeria was “headed in the wrong direction” and required a leader with energy and commitment to reverse its decline. He cited rising poverty, hunger, insecurity, and poor governance as evidence of worsening conditions.
Quoting recent reports, Obi noted that the World Bank projects 79% of Nigerians could face poverty, while the World Food Programme estimates 35 million citizens are at risk of hunger. “These are the issues we should be discussing, not personalities,” he said.
On insecurity, Obi acknowledged commendations from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Tinubu’s efforts but insisted the government’s response remained inadequate. “His best is not enough. We need to do far more,” he said, pointing to recent mass abductions in Zamfara State as proof of a national emergency.
Obi argued that poverty and lack of education fuel insecurity, stressing the need for massive investment in both sectors. He pledged that, if elected, he would personally oversee security operations and ensure the protection of citizens.
“I’m not desperate to be Nigeria’s president. I’m desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi said, adding that he would support any leader capable of delivering good governance.
