Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized President Bola Tinubu for spending much of his tenure abroad, questioning both the timing and priorities of his frequent foreign trips.
In a post shared on Friday, Obi noted that Tinubu departed for Europe barely six days after returning from a previous engagement, marking what is reportedly his tenth visit to France in just two years.
Obi contrasted the President’s repeated foreign travels with the worsening conditions at home, pointing out that over 79% of Nigerians—about 180 million people—are living with food insecurity. He further cited reports ranking Nigeria among the worst countries globally for childbirth, living conditions, and life expectancy.
The former governor of Anambra State also expressed concern over recent tragedies, including attacks in Katsina State that claimed over 50 lives and left more than 60 kidnapped, as well as a boat mishap in Niger State that killed at least 60 women and children.
Obi questioned why the President had not visited affected communities before jetting off again.
“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 said.
“What would it have taken the President to take a less than 30-minute trip to Niger State from Abuja in his jet? Mr. President could have at least visited the grieving families in Niger before jetting off again. Where is the compassion for Nigerian lives?”
He stressed that true leadership demands sacrifice and presence, urging Tinubu to prioritize healthcare, education, poverty reduction, and security over frequent foreign holidays.
“No holiday is more important than the Nigerian lives you swore to protect,” Obi declared.
