By Atoyebi Nike
Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a more compassionate and selfless approach to leadership, accusing the current administration of being detached from the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
Speaking on Sunday, Obi said the presidency demands sacrifice and empathy, not extravagance or fear. He condemned the use of public funds for luxury while millions lack access to basic health care.
“I will not use N150 billion to buy a jet when 80 percent of primary healthcare centres are not functioning,” Obi stated.
“If I become president, I will use resources effectively. I don’t need a jet. I can go anywhere without one.”
The former Anambra State governor reflected on his time in office, saying he lived modestly and rejected unnecessary security luxuries.
“For my first four years as governor, I drove a Peugeot 406. I didn’t use bulletproof cars. If you do the right thing, you won’t fear death. A leader should be ready to die if his people are dying.”
Obi criticized Tinubu’s failure to visit victims of key tragedies in 2024, including the Christmas party stampede in Ibadan that killed several children and the herdsmen attacks in Yelwata, Benue State.
“A president should show compassion. People want to see a leader who cares. Instead, we have a government without compassion. That kind of leadership is a minus.”
Obi’s remarks highlight growing discontent over what many see as elite indifference to Nigeria’s deepening hardship and insecurity.
