Peter Obi, former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on President Bola Tinubu to resign, arguing that the administration has failed to deliver on key promises made to Nigerians.
Obi made the call in a statement posted on social media on Monday, drawing parallels with the resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who announced his decision to step down amid mounting political pressure and public dissatisfaction in the United Kingdom.
According to Obi, leaders should be willing to accept responsibility when they fail to meet the expectations of the people they serve.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate said President Tinubu had made several commitments during the 2023 election campaign, particularly in the areas of electricity supply, security, anti-corruption efforts, and economic welfare.
Obi argued that rather than improving, conditions in these sectors have deteriorated.
“During the 2023 election campaign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made several promises, including improved electricity supply. He also challenged the electorate not to vote for him for a second term if he failed to deliver on those commitments,” Obi stated.
“At present, however, these conditions have worsened. Electricity supply remains unreliable, insecurity has intensified in many areas, including kidnappings, and economic hardship has deepened rather than eased.”
He further claimed that other critical sectors, including infrastructure, transportation, and governance, have also experienced setbacks under the current administration.
According to Obi, Nigeria is facing severe economic and social challenges that require greater accountability from political leaders.
Obi said his call for the President’s resignation was rooted in the principle of accountability and responsible leadership.
“I therefore join Nigerians of goodwill in calling for the resignation of the President over monumental failure in governance,” he said.
He argued that such a move would help foster a political culture where leaders are held accountable for their performance and where public office is regarded as a responsibility rather than an entitlement.
According to him, a voluntary resignation would send a strong message that leadership comes with consequences when expectations are not met.
In supporting his position, Obi recalled that President Tinubu, before assuming office, had also called on former President Goodluck Jonathan to resign during periods of insecurity and economic hardship.
He cited Tinubu’s reaction to the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction, when the then opposition leader criticised the federal government’s handling of the crisis and questioned its ability to protect citizens.
Obi argued that the same standards previously applied to past administrations should also apply to current leaders.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued an official response to Obi’s remarks.
The statement comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition figures increasingly scrutinising the performance of the current administration.
Obi recently emerged as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, positioning himself as one of the leading challengers to President Tinubu.
