President Bola Tinubu has questioned the leadership credentials of Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), citing his record as governor of Anambra State and his inability to resolve internal political challenges.
Tinubu made the remarks on Friday, November 6, while addressing supporters at a political rally in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he contrasted Obi’s performance in Anambra with his own record as governor of Lagos State.
Taking a swipe at the former Anambra governor, the President recalled the erosion challenges confronting the state during Obi’s administration, comparing them with his own efforts to address coastal challenges in Lagos.
“In Anambra State, he could not confront erosion. I, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, confronted the Atlantic Ocean,” the President said.
Tinubu presented the comparison as a test of leadership capacity, questioning whether Obi had demonstrated the determination and ability required to tackle difficult challenges.
He also criticised Obi’s handling of political affairs, suggesting that his inability to resolve internal disagreements within his political camp raised questions about his capacity to manage larger national responsibilities.
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“Is that a leadership trait? Is that a leadership character?” Tinubu asked, prompting supporters at the rally to respond in the negative.
The President subsequently urged his supporters to remain committed to his administration’s policies and vision, promising to address poverty, ignorance and economic decline.
He said his government was determined to improve the country’s economic and social conditions, insisting that the challenges confronting Nigeria could be overcome.
“We will break the circle of poverty, ignorance and economic regression. We will definitely break it,” Tinubu declared.
The President’s remarks come as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political parties and their presidential hopefuls positioning themselves for the contest.