Peter Obi Criticizes Tinubu’s Frequent Foreign Trips, Says Holidays Shouldn’t Come Before Nigerians’ Security

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized President Bola Tinubu over his frequent foreign travels, arguing that the president’s absences come at a time when Nigeria urgently needs decisive leadership.

In a post shared on his X handle Friday, the former Anambra State governor expressed concern about Tinubu’s repeated trips abroad, particularly to France, suggesting it gives the impression the president is “uncomfortable at home.”

“From all indications, our President is not finding his home in Nigeria conducive for a long stay, and it should be concerning to us,” Obi wrote.

He noted that Tinubu departed again barely six days after returning from a 15-day trip for what was described as a five-day engagement. “He is now heading for about his 10th trip to France in two years, this time for his annual holiday. It does look like Mr. President is running away from Nigeria at every slight opportunity,” Obi said.

The Labour Party flag bearer highlighted the country’s pressing challenges, including widespread hunger, rising insecurity, and poor healthcare and education systems.

“Meanwhile, at least 79% of Nigerians—over 180 million people—are facing food insecurity. Nigeria was recently declared the worst country to give birth, and weeks ago, the worst place to live, with the world’s lowest life expectancy. We deserve a president with all hands on deck to solve these issues,” he argued.

Obi also pointed to security crises that occurred during Tinubu’s previous trips. “Last month alone while Mr. President was away, over 50 people were killed in the horrifying mosque and village attack in Katsina State, with over 60 people kidnapped. Just yesterday, 60 citizens, including women and children, died in a boat mishap in Niger State. Yet Mr. President could not make a less than 30-minute trip from Abuja to console grieving families before jetting off again,” he said.

The former governor questioned Tinubu’s compassion for Nigerian lives, warning: “No holiday is more important than the Nigerian lives you swore to protect. At a time when Nigerians need leadership, empathy, and presence, a President should not choose foreign holidays.”

He added that true leadership requires sacrifice, investment in healthcare and education, lifting people out of poverty, and guaranteeing security for every citizen. “A New Nigeria is POssible,” Obi concluded.