PHOTO: Mr Peter Obi
By: Ndidi Okafor
Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Mr. Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as the President’s silence in the face of mounting national challenges confronting Nigerians.
Obi, in a statement released on Monday, expressed concern that the Federal Government has not provided clear, consistent communication on critical issues such as economic hardship, insecurity, and the rising cost of living. He argued that effective leadership requires regular engagement with citizens, especially during difficult times.
According to him, Nigerians are grappling with unprecedented economic pressure, including inflation, unemployment and fuel price increases, while incidents of insecurity continue to affect lives and livelihoods across several parts of the country.
Obi noted that in such circumstances, citizens expect reassurance, empathy and direction from the nation’s leader.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that presidential communication is not merely ceremonial but a vital tool for building trust and calming public anxiety.
He urged the President to address the nation more frequently, outlining concrete steps being taken to tackle the challenges and offering hope to struggling Nigerians.
Obi reiterated his call for people-centred governance, transparency and accountability, adding that leadership must be seen and heard, particularly when citizens are experiencing hardship.
He further encouraged Nigerians to remain peaceful and engaged in national discourse, while calling on those in authority to place the welfare of the people above all other considerations.
