In a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi called on President Bola Tinubu to resign, accusing him of lacking the capacity to govern Africa's most populous nation. Obi argued that under Tinubu's leadership, Nigeria has experienced deepening economic hardship, skyrocketing inflation, and worsening insecurity. He pointed to the removal of fuel subsidies without adequate palliatives and the floating of the naira as policies that have exacerbated poverty.
Economic Mismanagement
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, inflation hit 34.6% in June 2026, eroding purchasing power for millions of Nigerians. Obi noted that the administration's economic team has failed to stabilize the currency or attract foreign investment. "President Tinubu has shown he is out of touch with the realities facing ordinary Nigerians. His economic policies are not working, and the country is sliding into chaos. He should step down for a more capable leader," Obi stated.
Security Failures
Obi also criticized the government's handling of security, citing rising kidnappings, banditry, and terrorist attacks. He claimed that the president has not provided the necessary strategic direction to the armed forces. "Under Tinubu, insecurity has worsened. Farmers cannot go to their farms, and children are being kidnapped from schools. This is unacceptable," Obi said. He called on National Assembly members to initiate impeachment proceedings if Tinubu refuses to resign.
Political Reactions
The call for resignation has sparked debate among political analysts, with some viewing it as a political stunt ahead of the next election cycle. The ruling All Progressives Congress dismissed Obi's statement as "irresponsible and baseless." In a press briefing, APC spokesperson Felix Morka said, "Peter Obi is a desperate politician trying to remain relevant. President Tinubu remains focused on delivering good governance." Meanwhile, civil society groups have called for a national dialogue on leadership and economic reform.
Observers note that Obi's demand comes amid growing frustration with the administration's performance, but they question the feasibility of a resignation given the political dynamics in Nigeria. The presidency has not issued an official response to Obi's statement.
