By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The Presidency has strongly dismissed recent remarks by former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, calling for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resignation, describing them as “childish, misleading, and a deliberate political distraction.”
In a sharp rebuttal issued by the State House, the Presidency said Obi’s comparison of Nigeria’s presidential system with the British parliamentary model was “fundamentally flawed,” insisting that Nigeria operates a fixed-term presidential democracy that cannot be disrupted by social media commentary or political pressure campaigns.
The statement noted that recent electoral outcomes in parts of the country were an indication of continued public confidence in President Tinubu and his party, adding that political actors should focus on preparing for the 2027 general elections rather than “manufacturing premature tensions.”
On security, the Presidency argued that contrary to claims of worsening insecurity, the Tinubu administration has recorded “measurable gains,” including the rescue of abducted victims, neutralisation of terrorist leaders, and intensified military operations across the North-East and North-West. It added that over 15,000 criminals have been taken off the streets since 2023, alongside increased deployment of surveillance technology and expanded homeland security coordination.
The statement also pushed back on Obi’s economic assessment, insisting that Nigeria has recorded consistent GDP growth, improved foreign reserves, stronger federation revenues, and rising oil production under the current administration. It further highlighted gains in the capital market and increased investor confidence, which it said reflect “a recovering and stabilising economy.”
On infrastructure, the Presidency pointed to ongoing nationwide road projects and long-term superhighway developments, describing them as landmark investments designed to reshape national connectivity. It also defended reforms in the power sector, including the Electricity Act, rollout of prepaid meters, and expansion of off-grid solar initiatives.
Reacting to criticisms on living conditions, the statement acknowledged global economic pressures but argued that Nigeria’s reforms are already yielding long-term stability, particularly in revenue generation and investment inflows.
The Presidency concluded by accusing Obi of engaging in “political grandstanding” and misrepresentation of facts, insisting that President Tinubu remains focused on governance, reforms, and national development rather than political distractions.
“Leadership is about confronting challenges with solutions, not rhetoric,” the statement added, maintaining that the administration is committed to delivering on its mandate.
The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, and dated June 22, 2026.
About The Author
