Obi Calls on Tinubu To Resign, Citing ‘Monumental Failure’ In Governance

Juliet Oladele, Reporting 

PETER Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tender his resignation, arguing that his administration has “failed woefully” to deliver on its core campaign pledges.

Mr Obi’s remarks came in a lengthy social media post on Wednesday, in which he drew a direct parallel between the political situation in Nigeria and the recent announcement by the British Prime Minister to step down amid public discontent over a stagnating economy and a worsening cost-of-living crisis.

In a post on his X handle titled “Owning up to Leadership Failures and Political Responsibility,” the former Anambra State Governor urged President Tinubu to emulate the UK’s outgoing leader and take responsibility for the nation’s deteriorating economic and security conditions.

“This morning, I listened to the British Prime Minister’s speech announcing his planned resignation in July,” Mr Obi wrote. “As a keen observer of global politics, my primary interest lies in examining what successful nations do right and the structural factors that cause others to lag or struggle with governance and development.”

Mr Obi noted that the British premier’s decision was precipitated by “mounting public frustration over a stagnant economy, a worsening cost-of-living crisis, and a perceived failure to honour key campaign pledges.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, Mr Obi reminded readers that President Tinubu himself had, before assuming office, repeatedly demanded the resignation of former President Goodluck Jonathan over economic hardship and insecurity—most notably during the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapping in 2014.

“During the 2023 election campaign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made several promises, including improved electricity supply,” Mr Obi stated. “He also challenged the electorate not to vote for him for a second term if he failed to deliver on those commitments—particularly in providing stable power, fighting corruption, and improving the welfare of Nigerians.”

However, the NDC flagbearer argued that conditions have not only failed to improve but have regressed across critical sectors. “Electricity supply remains unreliable, insecurity has intensified in many areas, including kidnappings, and economic hardship has deepened rather than eased. We are in the worst possible condition,” he lamented.

Mr Obi asserted that a decision by President Tinubu to step down would help establish a political culture rooted in accountability and responsibility, moving away from what he described as a culture of impunity in public office.

“Such a gesture would help enthrone a political culture rooted in accountability and responsibility, rather than further entrenching impunity,” he wrote. “It would also send a powerful message that public office is a sacred trust, not an entitlement, and help build a society in which future leaders understand that failure carries consequences.”

He concluded: “Only by ending the culture of impunity can we secure a better future for the society our children will inherit in a New Nigeria that is possible.”

As of press time, the Presidency had not issued an official response to Mr Obi’s remarks. However, political analysts suggest the call is likely to reignite debate over the administration’s performance just over two years into its first term.