Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has questioned the continued absence and silence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that Nigeria is drifting without visible leadership at a time of worsening economic hardship and security challenges.
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, Obi described the President’s prolonged absence from public engagement as a failure of responsibility during what he called a “national emergency.” He pointed to projections suggesting that as many as 140 million Nigerians could be living in extreme poverty by the end of the year — potentially the highest number anywhere in the world.
Obi said the country is contending with deepening hunger, rising insecurity, mass unemployment affecting more than 80 million youths, and disturbing infant mortality figures that rank Nigeria among the most dangerous places globally for child survival.
“Where is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?” Obi asked, referencing reports that President Tinubu spent about 196 days outside the country in 2025 — more time abroad than at home — despite the scale of Nigeria’s challenges.
The former Anambra State governor also criticised what he described as the President’s silence since December 2025, noting that Nigerians did not receive a New Year address or national broadcast at a time marked by economic distress, fear and uncertainty. He alleged that the President was on vacation in Europe while millions struggled to cope with hardship at home.
Obi further faulted the government’s communication on security matters, citing reports of U.S. military strikes on Nigerian soil. He said Nigerians learned of the incident through foreign media and American officials rather than from their own government.
“This is not governance; it is neglect,” Obi said, stressing that leadership requires presence, direct engagement and clear communication, not statements issued only by aides.
He also recalled public outrage earlier in the year when an AI-generated image was circulated in place of a live presidential address, describing the episode as emblematic of a growing disconnect between the government and citizens.
According to Obi, Nigeria’s path to recovery depends on unity and national consensus — both of which he said are impossible without visible, responsive leadership.
“No policy, reform or economic plan can succeed in a divided nation. When leadership withdraws, unity collapses and mistrust takes over,” he said.
Calling for regular media briefings and direct engagement with Nigerians, Obi emphasised that citizens are not demanding perfection but accountability and presence from their President.
“In moments of crisis, silence from leadership is not just troubling — it is dangerous,” he concluded, adding that building a new Nigeria is not only possible but urgent.