Obi: Tinubu Should Follow Starmer’s Example, Resign

Former Governor of Anambra state and presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for President Bola Tinubu's resignation, urging him to follow the example of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Obi argued that Nigeria's current administration has failed to meet public expectations amid deteriorating economic and social conditions. He specifically referenced Tinubu's past calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to resign over similar issues, including economic hardship and insecurity.

Obi's appeal, framed as "Owning Up to Leadership Failures and Political Responsibility," highlighted the UK Prime Minister's planned July resignation. He contrasted this with Nigeria's situation, suggesting that Tinubu should "take a cue" and "save the country from the worsening economic situation." Obi reminded Tinubu of his electoral promises, particularly regarding reliable electricity, and his own past stance that he should not be voted in for a second term if he failed on that pledge.

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This morning (yesterday), I listened to the British Prime Minister’s speech announcing his planned resignation in July. As a keen observer of global politics, my primary interest lies in examining what successful nations do right and the structural factors that cause others to lag or struggle with governance and development.

The Nigerian Presidency swiftly rejected Obi's remarks, labeling the call for resignation as "childish, misplaced, and undemocratic." Officials maintained that President Tinubu was elected through a constitutional process and remains focused on pursuing his mandate while tackling the nation's economic and governance challenges. The exchange underscores the ongoing political discourse surrounding the administration's performance and the opposition's critiques.

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Before 2015, our President on several occasions championed the call for the then President Goodluck Jonathan to resign over economic hardship and insecurity affecting Nigerians. During the Chibok school kidnapping incident, he demanded the immediate resignation of President Jonathan, arguing that the government had failed in its most fundamental duty of protecting lives.