Peter Obi Criticizes President Tinubu’s Extended Absence During National Crises
Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi has publicly questioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s prolonged periods abroad amidst mounting domestic challenges. In a detailed statement on social media platform X, Obi highlighted that the President spent 196 days overseas in 2025 alone, a figure that has sparked significant public debate.
Obi’s remarks come at a time of rising national concern over severe issues including extreme poverty, high youth unemployment, food insecurity, and deteriorating security. He noted that since December 2025, the President has been largely absent without direct communication to the Nigerian people. “In the midst of this chaos, where has our President been?” Obi asked, pointing out that the leader was reportedly on holiday in Europe as the nation entered a New Year marked by hunger and uncertainty.
The former candidate argued that effective governance requires presence and direct engagement. He expressed dismay that citizens often learn of major events, such as security developments involving international actors, from foreign media or vague official statements rather than from their leader. “This is not governance; it’s neglect,” Obi stated, also referencing an instance where the President sent an AI-generated image to the nation instead of a direct address. He emphasized that while Nigerians do not demand perfection, they expect a president who is present and communicative, especially during a national crisis that demands unity and clarity.
Obi warned that the absence of strong, visible leadership erodes national cohesion and hampers effective policy implementation. His comments underscore a broader context of insecurity that has seen devastating incidents, including mass kidnappings at schools. The situation calls for a concerted response, not unlike the urgency seen when a police launch Christmas security initiatives or when the Ghana Police warn citizens about specific threats. As Nigeria navigates these complex challenges, the call for consistent, on-the-ground leadership grows louder, a principle that must guide any administration aiming to rebuild trust and stability.
