Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has openly challenged President Bola Tinubu to travel to the remaining 33 states of Nigeria to account for over $100 billion in loans taken by his administration, as well as ₦15.8 trillion reportedly saved from the removal of the fuel subsidy.
Obi criticized the current administration for poor fiscal management and excessive borrowing, claiming these actions have eroded Nigeria’s commonwealth. He asserted that Nigerians have a right to know how the funds generated through revenue increases, borrowing, and the removal of subsidies have been utilized since Tinubu’s administration began.
In a statement directed to the president, titled ‘Good Day, Mr. President: Nigerians Deserve Accountability’, Obi welcomed Tinubu’s recent visit to Akwa Ibom State and expressed hope that it would encourage further engagement with citizens across the nation.
Obi remarked on the length of the president’s foreign travels, suggesting that a more extensive visit throughout Nigeria would allow for better communication about his administration’s achievements and resource management.
He called for clarity on various issues, such as:
- The impact of the fuel subsidy removal on public services.
- Improvements in poverty reduction, education, healthcare, and national security.
- The administration’s progress in enhancing electricity supply, as related to previous promises by Tinubu.
- Accountability regarding how Nigeria’s national security challenges are being addressed amidst ongoing violence.
Obi emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in government actions, asserting that Nigerians deserve measurable results in their living conditions. He noted the importance of these principles as foundation stones for future governance in Nigeria.
In a related statement, the NDC underscored its commitment to ending what it described as a borrowing-driven governance model under Tinubu, promising to replace it with prudent management of public resources and greater accountability for citizens’ welfare.
The party also drawn comparisons between the fiscal records of Obi during his tenure as governor of Anambra State and Tinubu’s administration in Lagos State, highlighting discrepancies in their financial approaches.
