Obi Urges Tinubu to Lead with Compassion for Nigerians
Obi Urges Tinubu to Lead with Compassion for Nigerians
Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has called on President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate greater compassion and empathy toward Nigerians.
Obi emphasised that the role of a president demands sacrifice, humility, and sensitivity to the people’s suffering—not detachment, luxury, or fear.
Criticising the current administration for being disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens, Obi said, “If I become president, I will prioritise the effective use of resources. I won’t be talking about buying a new jet. I don’t need one—I can go anywhere without it. I would never spend N150 billion on a jet when 80 percent of our primary healthcare centres are non-functional.”
The former Anambra State governor cited his own example of modest leadership, recalling, “As governor, I drove a Peugeot 406 for the first four years. I didn’t use bulletproof cars. No one tries to harm you when you’re doing the right thing. It’s when leaders act wrongly that they fear for their lives. If your people are suffering and dying, you should be willing to share in their pain—even be ready to die for them. The president must be prepared for that level of sacrifice.”
Obi also criticised President Tinubu’s handling of major national tragedies in 2024, including his absence after a stampede at a Christmas event in Ibadan, Oyo State, where several children died.
“Instead of visiting grieving families, the president chose to remain in Lagos for the holidays,” Obi lamented. “There was no sign of compassion. Children—future leaders of this country—died, and he went on a Christmas holiday.”
He further condemned Tinubu’s failure to visit Yelwata in Benue State, where suspected herdsmen attacks led to the displacement of thousands.
“People want to wake up and see a leader who cares—one who shows genuine compassion,” Obi said. “Right now, we have a country lacking empathy. Leadership without compassion is a failure, and it does no good for any nation.”
