Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Sunday criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Nigerians are facing worsening hardship, rising poverty and insecurity more than three years after the government took office.
Obi made the remarks in a post on his verified X account after attending his ongoing town hall meeting in Owerri, Imo State, where he also visited a major market to interact with traders, buyers and residents.
According to him, the visit formed part of his nationwide engagement with Nigerians to hear directly from them and discuss the country’s future.
Speaking on the economic situation, Obi said the stories he heard from traders and residents reflected the hardship many Nigerians are experiencing.
He said, “Their stories and experiences offered yet another sobering reminder of how difficult life has become for ordinary Nigerians under the harsh economic policies of this administration.”
Obi also criticised President Tinubu for not spending a night in Imo State since assuming office. He said, “After more than three years in office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not considered it necessary to spend even one night in Imo State, despite spending over 260 days abroad.”
The former Anambra State governor further alleged that the Federal Government had accumulated huge debts without corresponding improvements in the welfare of citizens. He added that Nigeria remained among the world’s hungriest countries, with millions of people living in multidimensional poverty, while insecurity and the number of out-of-school children continued to pose serious challenges.
Despite the situation, Obi expressed optimism that the country could recover. He said, “Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and I are committed to securing and uniting our country, making massive investments in critical sectors such as health and education, and lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty.”
He also urged Nigerians to actively participate in the electoral process and safeguard their votes. According to him, “I encouraged our people to come out in their numbers, exercise their democratic rights and, more importantly, remain vigilant and stay with their votes until the final results are declared.”
Obi thanked supporters, party members, candidates and the people of Imo State for what he described as their warm reception and overwhelming support during the town hall meeting.
He concluded with a message of hope, saying, “The journey to a new Nigeria is a collective responsibility. Together, we can build a country that works for everyone. A New Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK!”
Obi has continued to hold town hall meetings across the country as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election gather momentum. The meetings are aimed at engaging citizens on national issues and presenting his vision for Nigeria.
