Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has raised serious concerns over what he described as the continued absence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu amid Nigeria’s worsening economic and security challenges.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Obi questioned the whereabouts of the President, describing his prolonged absence as a failure of leadership at a time when the country is facing what he called a “national emergency.”
Obi noted that Nigeria is projected to have about 140 million people living in extreme poverty by the end of the year, the highest number globally. He also highlighted rising hunger, widespread insecurity, massive youth unemployment estimated at over 80 million, and alarming infant mortality rates.
According to the former Anambra State governor, President Tinubu reportedly spent 196 days outside the country in 2025 alone, exceeding the time he spent within Nigeria, despite the scale of the crises confronting the nation.
Obi further criticised the President’s silence since December 2025, alleging that Nigerians were left without a New Year address or national broadcast while the President reportedly vacationed abroad.
“In moments of national distress, leadership presence matters,” Obi said, arguing that Nigerians deserved reassurance and clarity directly from their President rather than learning about critical developments from foreign media or government aides.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the President’s silence following reported U.S. military strikes on Nigerian soil, stating that citizens were informed through external sources instead of a direct address from their leader.
“This is not governance; it is neglect,” Obi said, adding that leadership requires visibility, communication, and accountability, not just official statements and press releases.
The former presidential candidate stressed that national unity and progress cannot be achieved in the absence of strong and present leadership, warning that silence during crises deepens mistrust and division.
Obi concluded by reaffirming his vision for the country, stating that a “New Nigeria is not just possible, but essential,” and urging leaders to step up and engage directly with the people during critical times.
