The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to show greater compassion towards Nigerians, stressing that the presidency demands sacrifice and empathy, not detachment, luxury, or fear.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi said the Tinubu administration appears disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens. He noted that if he were president, he would manage national resources prudently, citing the example of not buying a new presidential jet when basic healthcare facilities remain underfunded.
“I will use resources effectively. I cannot say, ‘buy a new jet.’ I don’t need one because I can travel anywhere without it. I will not spend N150 billion on a jet when 80% of primary healthcare centres are not functional,” he said.
Obi highlighted his tenure as Anambra State governor, describing it as a period of modest living and accountable governance. “For my first four years, I drove a 406. I never used bulletproof cars. Nobody will try to kill you if you do the right thing. It is when you do wrong that you fear death. If your people are dying, you should be ready to die. The president should also be ready to die,” he added.
He criticised Tinubu’s handling of major tragedies in 2024, such as the stampede at a Christmas party in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of several children. Obi said the president chose to remain in Lagos for the holidays instead of consoling bereaved families.
“There is no compassion; people lost their children who are the future leaders, yet he went on a Christmas holiday,” Obi said.
He also faulted Tinubu for failing to visit Yelwata in Benue State, where suspected herdsmen attacks displaced thousands.
“People want to see a president that cares, a president who shows compassion. Today, we have a country without compassion. Leadership without compassion is a minus. It is not good for a country,” Obi said.
ADEOLA KUNLE
