Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has asked President Bola Tinubu to be more compassionate towards Nigerians.
This is because he stated that the office of Nigerian president required sacrifice and compassion, not detachment, luxury, or fear.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi claimed that the Tinubu administration is detached from everyday Nigerians’ suffering.
He said, ”If I become president, I will use resources effectively. I cannot say, ‘Buy a new jet.
“I don’t need one because I can go anywhere without a jet.
“I will not use N150 billion to buy a jet when 80 per cent of primary healthcare centres are not functioning.”
The former Anambra State governor stated that his term in government was defined by humble living and responsible governance.
“I was a governor, and for my first four years, I drove 406. For the rest of it, I didn’t drive bulletproof cars.
“Nobody will try to kill you if you do the right thing. It is when you do the wrong thing that you fear death.
“If your people are dying, you should be ready to die. The president should also be ready to die,” Obi said.
Obi faulted Tinubu’s response to major tragedies in 2024, including the stampede at a Christmas party in Ibadan, Oyo State, which led to the death of several children.
According to him, Tinubu chose to remain in Lagos for the holidays instead of visiting grieving families.
“There is no compassion; people lost their children who will lead this country in the future, and he went on a Christmas holiday,” he said.
The Labour Party chieftain also criticised Tinubu for failing to visit Yelwata in Benue State, where suspected herdsmen attacked and displaced thousands.
Obi said, ”People want to get up and see a president that cares, a president that shows compassion.
“Today we have a country without compassion. Leadership without compassion is a minus. It is not good for a country.”
