The Presidency has strongly criticised Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, for calling on President Bola Tinubu to resign over the worsening security situation in the country.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Obi’s remarks as irresponsible, reckless, and politically motivated. In a statement on Tuesday, Onanuga said Obi’s demand was an attempt to exploit the pain of Nigerians for cheap political points ahead of the 2027 election. He accused the former Anambra governor of grandstanding instead of offering constructive solutions. The Presidency noted that Obi himself faced security challenges during his tenure as governor and questioned his sudden interest in national security only when out of power.
Onanuga reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity through ongoing military operations, intelligence sharing, and community engagement. He urged Obi to focus on building his party rather than heating the polity. Obi had earlier called for Tinubu’s resignation, citing failure to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State among other security lapses.
This sharp exchange underscores the growing political tension between the ruling party and opposition figures as the country battles persistent insecurity. While the Presidency views Obi’s comments as opportunistic, critics argue that the government must be held accountable for visible results on security, especially following high-profile abductions that have dominated national discourse. The war of words is likely to intensify political debates in the coming months, with both sides positioning themselves ahead of 2027.
Analysts note that calls for resignation are rare in Nigerian politics and often reflect deep public frustration over governance failures. However, they also risk diverting attention from collaborative solutions needed to address complex security challenges that predate the current administration. As Nigerians continue to demand improved safety, the exchange highlights the need for constructive engagement rather than partisan confrontations. The Presidency’s response aims to counter opposition narratives while defending its security record, but public pressure remains high for tangible improvements on the ground.
