Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on President Bola Tinubu to step aside ahead of the 2027 election, stating that the President is “tired” and no longer possesses the capacity to tackle Nigeria’s worsening economic and security crises. Obi made the remarks during an exclusive interview on Sunday Politics with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels Television.
Obi's Assessment of Tinubu's Leadership
Obi argued that while Tinubu performed well as governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, his current leadership has failed to address the country’s escalating problems. “The Bola Tinubu that was governor is not the one that is president today. He’s tired. He should be allowed to retire in peace, and then go home,” Obi said. The former Anambra State governor expressed concern that Nigeria is “headed in the wrong direction” and requires a leader with the energy and commitment to reverse the nation’s fortunes.
Call for Retirement
“As it is right now, Bola Tinubu is leading us nowhere. We will turn it so he can see it. That’s why maybe I’m calling for his retirement. The man should just step aside. Yes, he doesn’t have the capacity to do the job,” Obi added. He did not explicitly declare his own candidacy for 2027 but reiterated his belief that Nigeria needs a new direction.
Context and Reactions
Tinubu, who became president in May 2023, has faced criticism over rising inflation, insecurity, and fuel subsidy removal. Obi, who came third in the 2023 election, has remained a vocal critic of the administration. Political analysts note that such calls from a major opposition figure could energize debate about Tinubu’s fitness for office as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
