Obi Invokes UK PM’s Exit, Calls for Tinubu’s Resignation, Cites Economic Hardship and Governance Failures

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign over what he described as monumental failures in governance, worsening economic hardship and deteriorating security across the country.

In a statement posted on his X handle on Monday, Obi said his position was inspired by the culture of accountability in advanced democracies, citing the announcement by the British Prime Minister of his intention to resign amid growing public dissatisfaction over economic challenges and unfulfilled campaign promises.

According to Obi, the British leader’s decision underscored the importance of political responsibility and demonstrated that leaders should be held accountable when they fail to meet the expectations of the electorate.

The former Anambra State governor drew parallels with Nigeria’s political history, recalling that before assuming office in 2015, President Tinubu had repeatedly called for the resignation of former President Goodluck Jonathan over insecurity and economic hardship. He noted that Tinubu had also demanded Jonathan’s resignation following the abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok, arguing at the time that government had failed in its primary responsibility of protecting citizens.

Obi further recalled that during the 2023 presidential campaign, Tinubu promised to improve electricity supply, combat corruption and enhance the welfare of Nigerians. He also noted that the President had challenged Nigerians not to re-elect him if he failed to deliver on those commitments.

However, Obi argued that the country’s situation had worsened under the current administration, pointing to persistent power shortages, rising insecurity, increasing cases of kidnapping and deepening economic hardship.

He maintained that key sectors including infrastructure, transportation, security and anti-corruption efforts have witnessed regression rather than progress, insisting that Nigeria is currently facing its worst conditions in recent history.

“I, therefore, join Nigerians of goodwill in calling for the resignation of the President over monumental failure in governance,” Obi stated.

He argued that such a move would help institutionalise a culture of accountability and responsibility in the country, rather than entrenching impunity.

According to him, voluntary resignation in the face of poor performance would send a strong signal that public office is a sacred trust and not an entitlement, while also helping to build a political system where leaders understand that failure carries consequences.

Obi added that ending the culture of impunity is essential to securing a better future for generations to come and achieving the vision of a “New Nigeria” founded on transparency, responsibility and good governance.

The remarks are expected to reignite political debates over the performance of the current administration, as Nigerians continue to grapple with inflation, rising cost of living and security challenges across several parts of the country.