Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s response to the deadly attack in Plateau State, describing the decision to address victims from an airport tarmac as “profoundly inadequate”.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Obi drew a contrast between what he described as “true leadership” and the President’s engagement with affected communities.
“What happened in Plateau yesterday highlights a complete absence of leadership,” Obi said. “True leadership requires presence, empathy, compassion, and a willingness to meet people where their pain truly lies.”
Tinubu’s Visit
President Tinubu visited Jos on Thursday following the deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba that claimed at least 26 lives. However, the President’s engagement ended at the airport instead of extending to the affected communities, according to reports.
Obi noted that this was not the first time the President had avoided visiting the scene of an attack. He recalled that during a visit to Benue State in June 2025, Tinubu stopped at the Government House but did not go to the locations where innocent Nigerians had lost their lives.
“For citizens who have just lost loved ones, homes, and their sense of safety, being addressed from an airport tarmac is profoundly inadequate,” Obi said.
‘Empty Promises’
Obi further accused the President of making “empty promises” without concrete action.
“This approach exacerbates the sense of abandonment already felt by innocent Nigerians who have endured repeated cycles of violence without meaningful protection or justice,” he added.
He called on the government to move beyond words and take urgent action to end the insecurity that continues to claim innocent lives.
“Plateau deserves more than distant words; it requires urgent action and a clear commitment to ending the insecurity that continues to claim innocent lives,” Obi said.
“In such moments, leadership must not only be visible but also tangible — standing with victims, listening to survivors, and acknowledging the depth of their grief.”
Call for Accountability
Obi urged Nigerians to demand leadership that is “present, responsive, and responsible at all times.”
“If we truly desire a better Nigeria, we must demand leadership that is present, responsive, and responsible at all times,” he said.
He ended with his signature campaign slogan: “A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO”
Based on a statement by Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate.
