The Tinubu Of Lagos Is Not The One Who Is Present Today, He Is Tired And Needs To Go Home And Rest–Obi

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he considers a lack of the energy and availability required to effectively govern Nigeria. He argued that the demands of the presidency require a leader who is physically fit, mentally alert and fully committed to the responsibilities of the office.

Obi made the remarks during a town hall meeting in Lagos State, where he addressed supporters and outlined the leadership qualities he believes Nigeria needs. In a video shared by Channels Television, the former Anambra State governor questioned whether Tinubu was currently capable of meeting the demanding expectations associated with leading the country.

While discussing the president’s performance, Obi suggested that the Tinubu who governed Lagos State was different from the one currently occupying the nation’s highest political office. He argued that governing a country as complex as Nigeria requires constant attention and active participation rather than simply holding the position of president.

According to Obi, the responsibility of leading the country should not be treated like an ordinary job where the person in charge can choose when to be available and when to step away from official duties. He maintained that national leadership requires daily commitment, particularly because Nigerians are dealing with several pressing economic, security and social challenges.

Obi also stressed that competence, physical capacity and availability would form important parts of his approach to governance if given the opportunity to become president. He said the country needs someone capable of responding promptly to national concerns and providing consistent leadership.

Speaking directly about Tinubu, Obi said: “Somebody asked me about our president; I said the Tinubu of Lagos State is not the one who is present today. The one who is present today is tired. He needs to go home.”

The statement represents another round of criticism from Obi against the Tinubu administration as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general election. His comments also reflect his attempt to draw a distinction between his proposed leadership style and what he considers the shortcomings of the current administration.

By emphasising energy, commitment and accessibility, the NDC presidential candidate argued that Nigerians deserve a president who can consistently attend to the demands of the office and provide effective leadership.

Watch the video from 10:59 to 11:58 minutes