Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi has accused President Bola Tinubu of being out of touch with the present realities in the country.
The former Anambra State governor made the remarks in his appraisal of President Tinubu's broadcast to the nation in response to the ongoing nationwide protest against hunger, hardship and bad governance which started on August 1.
His reaction was contained in his post on his verified X account (formerly Twitter) on Monday.
Obi, who had previously advocated for the President to address the nation concerning issues that gave rise to the protest said he deliberately chose to react to the President's broadcast so as to gauge broader public opinion.
Describing the president's address as out of touch with the current realities, Obi said that the development suggested either a lack of awareness among the president's advisers or a deliberate neglect of pressing issues.
He urged the president to distance himself from sycophants and engage with individuals who can provide honest feedback.
Stating that the president's speech focused on historical issues, Obi rather stressed the need for urgent attention to present and future challenges, such as reducing the high cost of governance, tackling corruption, and addressing the high cost of living.
He called for targeted efforts in key areas like health, education, and poverty alleviation.
Obi also advocated for a comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity, economic difficulties, and other critical issues, urging the president to provide regular briefings on tangible measures being implemented to address the nation's problems.
Obi further called for a shift from merely highlighting current issues to taking meaningful action. He stressed that while immediate solutions may not be possible, a consistent effort is essential to effectively manage public resources, combat corruption, and enhance critical sectors to foster national growth and restore hope for Nigeria's future.
He emphasised the government's role in protecting peaceful protesters while addressing criminal elements disrupting the demonstrations.
Obi welcomed the president's condemnation of ethnic bigotry but called for more decisive actions, including the immediate arrest and prosecution of those promoting intolerance.
