Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has called for greater accountability in public office, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign over what he described as failures in governance and the worsening socio-economic conditions in the country.
In a statement issued on Monday, Obi said he was inspired by the recent announcement by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer of plans to step down from office, describing the move as an example of political responsibility and accountability.
According to Obi, the resignation announcement in the United Kingdom followed public dissatisfaction over economic challenges, rising living costs, and unmet campaign promises.
Drawing comparisons with Nigeria, the former Anambra State governor recalled that before becoming president, Tinubu had repeatedly criticized the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan over issues of insecurity and economic hardship.
Obi specifically referenced public statements made during the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction, when Tinubu and other opposition figures demanded stronger government action and accountability.
The former presidential candidate also pointed to promises made by Tinubu during the 2023 election campaign, particularly in the areas of electricity supply, anti-corruption efforts, security, and economic welfare.
According to Obi, many of those commitments have yet to be fulfilled, arguing that Nigerians continue to face persistent power shortages, rising insecurity, kidnappings, inflation, and economic hardship.
He further stated that conditions in key sectors, including infrastructure, transportation, and public service delivery, have deteriorated, leading to widespread public frustration.
“As a nation, we must begin to build a culture where leaders take responsibility for their actions and are held accountable for their performance in office,” Obi said.
The former governor maintained that leadership should be viewed as a public trust and not an entitlement, adding that accountability is essential for strengthening democratic institutions and improving governance.
Obi said that embracing political responsibility would help foster a culture in which public officials understand that failure in office carries consequences.
The statement is the latest criticism of the Tinubu administration from the opposition figure, who has consistently raised concerns about the country’s economic and security challenges since the 2023 general elections.
The Presidency has not yet responded to Obi’s latest remarks. However, government officials have repeatedly defended the administration’s policies, arguing that ongoing reforms are necessary to address long-standing structural challenges and place the economy on a sustainable growth path.
The comments come amid continued national debate over economic reforms, rising living costs, and the broader direction of governance in Nigeria.
