Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi called on President Bola Tinubu to resign on Sunday, 26 July 2026, alleging that the president lacks the capacity to address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, poverty and economic difficulties.
Obi made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he criticised the direction of the country under the current administration and urged political leaders to focus on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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The statement centred on concerns over hunger, insecurity, healthcare challenges, education gaps and the management of public resources.
“We are headed in the wrong direction now. You can see it. That’s why I have called for his resignation. That’s why maybe I’m calling for his retirement. The man should just step aside. Yes, he doesn’t have the capacity to do the job,” Obi said.
He further argued that President Tinubu’s leadership style had changed since his time as governor of Lagos State.
“The Bola Tinubu that was governor is not the one that is president today. He’s tired. He should be allowed to retire in peace and then go home,” Obi said.
The comments come as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with economic hardship, security concerns and social welfare expected to dominate public debate.
Obi said the next election should focus on issues directly affecting Nigerians, including rising poverty levels, food insecurity, kidnapping, healthcare access, education and alleged misuse of public funds.
“The World Bank has just said that 79% of Nigerians are going to face poverty. In a country of 230 million people, that’s over 180 million,” he said.
He also referenced concerns over food insecurity, stating that projections from international organisations showed millions of Nigerians could face hunger if current challenges persist.
“This election in 2027 should be about issues that affect the ordinary Nigerians. The World Food Programme has just said 35 million Nigerians are going to face hunger. Nigerians are being kidnapped. Let’s talk about Nigeria,” Obi added.
The former governor said greater attention should be given to the number of children outside the education system, healthcare delivery and ensuring public funds are directed towards development.
Political analysts have noted that the economy, security and social welfare are likely to remain major themes as parties prepare for the 2027 election cycle.
Obi, who finished third in the 2023 presidential election, has continued to advocate for reforms focused on productivity, accountability and improved living standards.
Earlier, the NDC presidential candidate said that if elected, his administration would introduce policies that place a greater tax burden on wealthy individuals and redirect resources towards productive sectors of the economy and social development.
President Tinubu’s administration has defended its policies, arguing that ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening the economy, attracting investment and addressing long-standing structural challenges.
Supporters of the government have maintained that many reforms require time before their full impact is felt.
Also read: Peter Obi says 24-hour electricity promise is unrealistic within four years
Obi’s latest remarks add another layer to the growing political contest ahead of 2027, as opposition figures continue to challenge the government’s handling of Nigeria’s economic and security situation.
Maryam Idris is a reporter and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
