Starmer’s Resignation: Peter Obi Asks President Tinubu To Resign Over ‘Monumental Failure’
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to resign over what he described as a "monumental failure" in governance.
Obi made the call in a statement on Monday while reacting to reports of the planned resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, saying the development underscores the importance of accountability and political responsibility in leadership.
According to Obi, he listened to Starmer's speech announcing his intention to step down in July and reflected on the lessons Nigeria could draw from the situation.
"This morning, 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," he said.
The former presidential candidate noted that Starmer's decision came amid public dissatisfaction over economic stagnation, rising living costs and an alleged failure to fulfil key campaign promises.
Turning attention to Nigeria's situation, Obi recalled that before assuming office, President Tinubu had repeatedly demanded the resignation of former President Goodluck Jonathan over insecurity and economic challenges, particularly following the abduction of schoolgirls in the Chibok schoolgirl kidnapping.
"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," Obi stated.
He added, "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."
Obi further reminded Nigerians of Tinubu's campaign promises during the 2023 election, including commitments to improve electricity supply, tackle corruption and enhance citizens' welfare.
"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made several promises, including improved electricity supply. He also challenged the electorate not to vote for him for a second term if he failed to deliver on those commitments, particularly in providing stable power, fighting corruption, and improving the welfare of Nigerians," he said.
The former governor, however, argued that conditions in the country have deteriorated since Tinubu assumed office.
"Electricity supply remains unreliable, insecurity has intensified in many areas, including kidnappings, and economic hardship has deepened rather than eased," Obi said.
He also alleged that other critical sectors, including infrastructure, transportation and anti-corruption efforts, had suffered setbacks, insisting that the country is "in the worst possible condition."
Consequently, Obi said he was joining "Nigerians of goodwill" in demanding the President's resignation.
"I, therefore, join Nigerians of goodwill in calling for the resignation of the President over monumental failure in governance," he declared.
According to him, such a move would promote a culture of accountability and responsibility in public service.
"Such a gesture would help enthrone a political culture rooted in accountability and responsibility, rather than further entrenching impunity. It would also send a powerful message that public office is a sacred trust, not an entitlement, and help build a society in which future leaders understand that failure carries consequences."
He added that Nigeria could only secure a better future by ending what he described as a culture of impunity.
“Only by ending the culture of impunity can we secure a better future for the society our children will inherit in a New Nigeria that is possible,” Obi stated.