ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The 2023 Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned Nigeria’s current state, calling it one of the most corrupt and insecure nations in the world under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
In a statement on Tuesday commemorating Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, Obi attributed the country’s stagnation and glaring failures to Tinubu and the political elite.
“For me, this should also be a day of sober reflection for every Nigerian, especially for us, the leaders, whose actions and inactions have contributed to the stagnation and glaring failures we are witnessing at present,” Obi said.
The former Governor of Anambra State lamented the deep-rooted issues facing Nigeria, from poverty and the growing number of out-of-school children to the crumbling economy.
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“By every measure of development, from the critical areas to the smallest aspects, we are underperforming,” Obi declared.
He emphasized Nigeria’s poor global rankings, particularly in areas of security and corruption.
“We rank poorly in security and peacefulness, making us one of the most insecure nations globally. We are also ranked among the most corrupt countries, and we are noted for our disregard for the rule of law. Our nation continues its dangerous dance on the edge of a precipice,” Obi added.
Meanwhile, in contrast to Obi’s criticism, President Tinubu delivered an optimistic message during his Independence Day address.
He highlighted what he considered progress under his administration, citing achievements such as clearing a $7 billion inherited foreign exchange backlog, attracting over $30 billion in foreign direct investments, and eliminating over 600 bandits and Boko Haram terrorists.
“Over six decades, Nigerians worldwide can see how well we have succeeded in realizing the lofty dreams of our founding fathers,” Tinubu stated, positioning his government’s actions as significant steps toward national growth.