Presidential candidate of The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider resignation, arguing that his administration’s worsening economic conditions, insecurity, and unmet campaign promises reflect a leadership failure that requires accountability.
Obi made the appeal on Monday while reacting to the announced resignation of the British Prime Minister, describing it as a clear demonstration of democratic responsibility that Nigeria should emulate.
In a statement titled “Owning Up to Leadership Failures and Political Responsibility,” Obi said the UK Prime Minister’s decision shows that when governance outcomes fall short of public expectations, leaders are expected to take responsibility rather than cling to office.
He noted that the resignation in the United Kingdom followed sustained public frustration over economic stagnation, rising cost of living, and dissatisfaction with government performance.
According to him, Nigeria should take a cue from the UK example in addressing leadership accountability and political responsibility.
Turning to Nigeria’s situation, Obi recalled that President Tinubu, during his time in opposition, repeatedly demanded accountability from past administrations and called for resignation when governments failed to meet their obligations, particularly during moments of national crisis.
He also referenced campaign promises made in 2023, including improved electricity supply, stronger security architecture, effective anti-corruption measures, and better welfare for citizens.
Obi said the reality today falls short of those commitments.
“Electricity remains unstable, insecurity has worsened across many regions, kidnappings persist, and the cost of living has continued to rise, pushing millions deeper into hardship,” he stated.
He added that key sectors such as infrastructure, transportation, and governance have continued to struggle, further deepening public frustration.
Obi argued that democratic leadership must be anchored on consequences when performance fails, stressing that resignation in such circumstances is not weakness but responsibility.
“Leadership is a contract of trust. When that trust is broken at scale, accountability must follow. I therefore join well-meaning Nigerians in calling on the President to resign over what is clearly a monumental failure of governance,” he said.
He maintained that such a step would help strengthen democratic culture in Nigeria and reinforce the principle that public office is a trust that must answer to the people.