Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Enugu, Nigeria — Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has sharply criticised the Tinubu‑led federal government for what he describes as systemic mismanagement, corruption and the erosion of Nigeria’s democratic gains, during his official defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu State on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. His remarks, delivered at a high‑profile political gathering, underscored his strong indictment of the current administration’s record on governance and economic stewardship.
Obi, who formally left the Labour Party to join the ADC amid calls for opposition unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, painted a bleak portrait of Nigeria’s condition, asserting that the nation is being “looted into poverty” and betrayed by leadership that has failed to harness its vast human and natural resources for the benefit of its citizens. “As a nation, we are not poor; we are looted into poverty,” he declared during his speech in Enugu, emphasising that Nigeria’s struggles are rooted not in a lack of potential but in sustained leadership failure and exploitation of public resources.
In a direct critique of the Tinubu administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Obi accused political elites of eroding democratic institutions and perpetuating economic hardship. He argued that insecurity, unemployment, corruption and institutional decay have deepened under the current government, leaving millions of Nigerians in persistent agony. Obi said the problems are compounded by what he described as poor fiscal policies that burden ordinary citizens while failing to catalyse wealth creation or inclusive growth.
Obi’s critique reflects a broader narrative among opposition figures and civil society activists who have repeatedly faulted the federal government on issues of governance and economic management. Critics, including commentators at Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, have highlighted policies they say have pushed Nigerians deeper into poverty and weakened democratic standards, suggesting a stark contrast between official government narratives and citizens’ lived realities.
The former Anambra State governor framed his defection to the ADC not merely as a change of political party but as part of a larger mission to “rescue Nigeria” from entrenched governance problems. He urged Nigerians to rally behind a coalition of opposition forces committed to transparent, accountable leadership and democratic integrity. Obi warned that the struggle ahead is not simply electoral but foundational, requiring unity, vigilance and systemic reform.
Obi also used his speech to issue a stark warning about potential electoral fraud in the 2027 elections, vowing to resist any attempts to manipulate outcomes by unlawful means. He stressed the importance of strengthening democratic institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and demanded credible, transparent elections as a key pillar of national renewal.
Political analysts say Obi’s rhetoric taps into wider frustrations among Nigerians over economic hardship, rising costs of living, insecurity and governance challenges. His portrayal of the government as prioritising elite interests over citizens’ welfare resonates with many who feel excluded from national progress.
The event in Enugu State, which drew veteran politicians and opposition leaders, was widely interpreted as a strategic repositioning of Obi and his supporters, aiming to forge a broader coalition capable of challenging the APC’s dominance. Among the attendees were prominent figures who, like Obi, have expressed disillusionment with current governance trends and are positioning themselves for active engagement in the 2027 political realignment.
As 2026 begins, Obi’s remarks are expected to intensify debates over Nigeria’s direction and the performance of its political leadership. Supporters of the former Labour Party candidate see his move to the ADC and his accompanying critique of the Tinubu administration as a bold call for accountability and renewal, while critics argue that such rhetoric may deepen political polarisation.
What remains clear is that Obi’s message — that Nigeria’s troubles stem from poor governance and misappropriation of public resources — is likely to feature prominently in the discourse shaping opposition strategy and public debate in the run‑up to the 2027 elections.
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