The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should step aside after the 2027 general election, arguing that the President has done his best but no longer possesses the capacity required to address Nigeria’s mounting economic and security challenges.
Obi made the remarks during separate media appearances while reacting to comments by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who had said President Tinubu had “tried his best” in tackling insecurity. Obi agreed with the cleric’s assessment but questioned whether the administration’s performance had been sufficient.
According to Obi, the issue is not whether the President has made an effort, but whether the results have met the country’s expectations.
“What he said was correct. He said he has tried his best. He’s trying his best. That’s it. The question to ask is: Is his best good enough?” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor maintained that effective leadership requires competence, capacity, compassion, commitment and character, adding that Nigeria needs a new direction ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
“President Tinubu is tired. He needs to go home and rest,” Obi said, arguing that the country’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship demonstrate the need for a change in leadership.
Obi also dismissed suggestions that he was desperate to become president, insisting that his interest in the 2027 election is driven by a desire to improve governance rather than personal ambition. He said the country requires leaders with the energy and vision to confront its pressing challenges.
The remarks have added to the growing political exchanges ahead of the 2027 general election, with leading parties and aspirants increasingly articulating their positions on governance, security and the economy.
President Tinubu, who is expected to seek a second term in office, has consistently defended his administration’s reforms, saying they are necessary to stabilise the economy and lay the foundation for long-term growth. His supporters have also argued that the government’s policies require more time to produce their full impact.
