Peter Obi knocks Tinubu Government, says Nigerians are tired of excuses

Former Labour Party presidential candidate and chieftain of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the government of failing to deliver meaningful results to Nigerians nearly three years after assuming office.

Obi made the remarks during a dinner organised for aspirants of the NDC in Abuja, where party leaders, members and political stakeholders gathered to discuss the party’s future electoral plans and national political direction.

The former Anambra State governor used the occasion to emphasise the need for competent and result-oriented leadership, insisting that Nigerians are tired of excuses from public officials and expect tangible improvements in governance and living conditions.

Speaking to party members, Obi said leadership positions should be occupied only by individuals with the competence, commitment and passion required to solve the country’s pressing challenges.

“What I’m seeing I can change, and that’s why I want the office. I’m not looking for excuses,” Obi declared.

“We cannot hire people who will give us excuses again. The time for excuses has passed. If you cannot work now, go home.

“The office is for people who have the competence, passion, capacity, commitment and character to lead,” he added.

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Although Obi did not mention Tinubu directly in parts of his speech, political observers interpreted his comments as a pointed criticism of the current administration, particularly amid growing public concerns over economic hardship, inflation, unemployment and insecurity across the country.

The remarks come at a time when the Tinubu administration continues to defend its economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange policy changes, arguing that the measures are necessary to stabilise Nigeria’s economy in the long term.

Obi, however, maintained that governance should be measured by visible impact on citizens’ welfare rather than explanations and repeated promises. He argued that elected leaders who are unable to provide what he described as the “dividends of democracy” should step aside instead of remaining in office without delivering meaningful progress.

The former governor has consistently positioned himself as an advocate for prudent management of public resources, transparency and people-centred governance since the 2023 presidential election, where he emerged as one of the leading opposition figures in the country.

His latest comments are expected to further intensify political debates ahead of future electoral contests, especially as opposition figures continue to mount pressure on the ruling administration over the state of the economy and governance challenges facing Nigerians.

Political analysts say Obi’s remarks also reflect ongoing efforts by opposition leaders to consolidate support and redefine their political platforms ahead of the next general election cycle.