Peter Obi Urges Tinubu To Show Greater Compassion For Nigerians

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a more compassionate and selfless approach to leadership.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi emphasized that the role of Nigeria’s president demands sacrifice and empathy, not luxury, fear, or detachment from the people’s struggles.

Obi criticized the Tinubu administration for being out of touch with the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.

“If I become president, I will use public resources effectively. Buying a new jet would not be my priority—I don’t need one to serve the country,” he said.

“I wouldn’t spend N150 billion on a jet when 80 percent of our primary healthcare centres aren’t functional.”

Reflecting on his tenure as governor of Anambra State, Obi highlighted his commitment to modest living and accountable governance.

“I drove a Peugeot 406 for my first four years as governor, and even afterward, I didn’t use bulletproof cars,” he recalled.

“People won’t try to harm you if you govern with integrity. Fear comes when you do the wrong thing.

If your people are suffering and dying, you must be ready to make sacrifices—even risk your life.”

Obi also expressed disappointment with Tinubu’s response to key tragedies in 2024. He cited the deadly stampede at a Christmas party in Ibadan, which claimed the lives of several children, and criticized Tinubu for choosing to remain in Lagos during the holidays rather than visit grieving families.

“There was no compassion. These were children—future leaders of our country—yet the president went on a holiday,” Obi said.

He further condemned the president’s absence from Yelwata, Benue State, where suspected herdsmen attacks displaced thousands.

“People want to see a president who cares. Leadership without compassion is a failure,” Obi stated.

“Today, Nigeria is suffering from a lack of empathy, and that’s dangerous for our nation.”