Peter Obi’s call for Tinubu’s resignation childish, hollow — Presidency

Presidency Rejects Calls for President Tinubu’s Resignation

The presidency has dismissed the demand for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resignation, made by Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). In a statement issued Monday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, characterized Obi’s call as “childish,” “baseless,” and a distraction from critical national issues.

Onanuga argued that Obi’s comments are misplaced and reflect a limited understanding of Nigeria’s political context since 2023. He pointed out the differences between Nigeria’s presidential system and the parliamentary system of the United Kingdom, where comparisons to British Prime Minister resignations were made.

“The people of Ekiti State, along with constituents in Nasarawa, Enugu, Ondo, and Rivers, have recently demonstrated significant support for President Tinubu and his party,” Onanuga stated, emphasizing that election results serve as a gauge of Tinubu’s popularity among Nigerians.

Onanuga criticized Obi for using social media to advocate for Tinubu’s resignation, calling it anti-democratic and out of touch with the electoral process leading to the January 2027 elections. He insisted that President Tinubu did not inherit a thriving nation but rather a country facing long-standing security challenges.

Onanuga highlighted the administration’s achievements in security, noting that hundreds have been rescued from captivity and many terrorists have been apprehended. He emphasized the administration’s investment in security enhancements, including advanced technologies and a new Special Adviser on Homeland Security.

In response to Obi’s characterization of Nigeria’s economic situation, Onanuga defended Tinubu’s policies, asserting they have led to positive gross domestic product growth since May 2023. He cited improvements in trade surpluses, foreign reserves, and oil production.

“By May this year, Nigeria had collected N15.7 trillion in revenue, more than double the total for 2022,” he stated, adding that state governments are now better positioned to fund educational and infrastructure projects.

The statement also noted that President Tinubu has focused on infrastructure improvements and educational support, including interest-free loans for tertiary students. Onanuga dismissed claims by Obi regarding electricity promises and clarified that Tinubu’s administration is working to enhance power supply through reforms and increased generation capacity.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s challenges, Onanuga attributed many issues to global economic conditions, particularly recent tensions in the Middle East that have impacted commodity prices.

In closing, Onanuga labeled Obi’s call for resignation as a hollow political maneuver rather than a genuine call for accountability. He emphasized Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the nation’s challenges and fostering progress.

“President Tinubu is focused on solutions and long-term reforms that will benefit Nigeria,” Onanuga stated, asserting that the president remains committed to delivering results and setting the nation on a path toward prosperity.

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