- Advertisement -
Peter Obi’s Media Briefing: June 29, 2025
Abuja – In a wide-ranging media chat this Sunday, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi dissected President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, coalition politics, national security, and his own readiness for the 2027 polls. Below are Obi’s key takeaways, directly sourced from his remarks.
1. Tinubu’s Travel vs Domestic Presence
- Advertisement -
In two years, Tinubu has not spent a single night in any Nigerian state apart from Lagos, yet he is going to spend eight nights in St. Lucia, a place smaller than Ajegunle.”
Obi criticised the optics of prolonged foreign stays amid pressing local challenges, calling for leadership grounded in national presence and attention.
Also Read: BREAKING: Presidency Debunks Rumour, Confirms George Akume Remains SGF
- Advertisement -
2. Coalition Must Address Core Crises
“If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara; how to revive our economy; how to make our industries productive; how to put food on the tables of Nigerians… Count me out!”
Obi emphasized that any political alliance must prioritise genuine national issues over political expediency.
- Advertisement -
3. Commitment to Peaceful Elections 2027
“We will not be violent and will ensure that every vote in each polling unit counts in 2027.”
He reaffirmed his non-violent stance and pledged to protect electoral integrity in the upcoming general elections.
4. Accountability in Crisis Amid Bus Stop Projects
“People are dying in Benue, Borno [and other parts of the country] and our leaders are commissioning bus stops.”
- Advertisement -
Obi contrasted the government’s misplaced priorities against the reality of citizens suffering insecurity and deaths.
5. His Governance Roadmap
“To bring order in governance, I will prioritise security, education, and pulling people out of poverty. To do this is by cutting the cost of governance and fighting corruption from day one.”
He outlined a reform strategy focused on core social investments and reducing waste through anti-corruption.
6. Local Leadership Ethos
“Wherever there was an issue in Anambra State, I was there physically. Anybody who wants to serve should be ready to put even their life on the line for the lives of Nigerians.”
Obi positioned himself as a hands-on leader, contrasting present leadership shortages during crises.
7. International Respect Hinges on Stability
“Nobody abroad takes you seriously if you don’t have a stable government.”
He linked Nigeria’s global image to the credibility of its government and its stability at home.
8. Law Above Affection
“Being friendly or laughing with people doesn’t have anything to do with the law… if you do anything, you face it.”
Obi stressed that accountability must be applied equally, regardless of personal relationships or social status.
9. Bayo Onanuga Encounter
“I went to the 90th birthday of the Vanguard publisher. There, I met Bayo Onanuga. If I see him on the road, I won’t even recognise him.
A light-hearted jab at the President’s media aide, reflecting Obi’s mix of humour and political sharpness.
10. Security-First Leadership
“I will not go to St. Lucia for holiday with the level of insecurity in Nigeria. I would rather go to Maiduguri and work to stop the bloodshed. I will not go on holiday when Nigeria is at war.”
Obi sharply criticised Tinubu’s leisure abroad, arguing that a president should stay home when the nation is in crisis.
Context and Analysis
Obi’s media chat came shortly after major Obidient movement announcements, including a nationwide rally planned for July 19 to coincide with his 64th birthday.
The speech reflects a continuity of his message for transparent, accountable leadership, and enhanced security—highlighted earlier in his engagement with Northern civic leaders .
What It Means
- Domestic focus vs international leisure: Obi presented Tinubu’s foreign trips as negligence during emergencies.
- Coalition with purpose: He positioned himself as a values-driven leader seeking issue-based partnerships.
- In-person leadership: Obi emphasized physical presence and responsiveness at the grassroots level.
- Law and governance ethos: He stressed rule of law and accountability over friendships or political convenience.
Bottom Line
Former Anambra governor Peter Obi used this Sunday’s media chat to reinforce his public image—an impassioned, citizen-focused advocate prioritising security, accountability, and transformational governance. As Nigerians prepare for 2027, Obi clearly wants to be seen not just as a critic, but as a viable alternative.
- Advertisement -
