The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has publicly backed recent statements made by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, regarding the nation’s security challenges, while declaring that President Bola Tinubu has run his course.
Speaking at a political briefing in Abuja, Obi agreed with the revered cleric’s assessment that President Tinubu has exhausted his capacity and done his absolute best to tackle Nigeria’s compounding security issues. However, the NDC flagbearer quickly pivoted to argue that the President’s “best” has proven insufficient to guarantee the safety of Nigerians, suggesting it is time for a change in leadership.
”I entirely agree with Pastor Adeboye that the President has done his best,” Obi stated to reporters. “But when your best is still leaving our communities vulnerable, our roads unsafe, and our people living in fear, it is a clear sign. The President has tried his hardest, and we thank him for his service. He should now simply go home and rest.”
The comments follow an address by Pastor Adeboye, who acknowledged the administration’s strenuous efforts against banditry and terrorism but noted the persistent nature of the crisis. Obi’s alignment with the religious leader is being viewed by political analysts as a calculated move to bridge regional and religious divides ahead of the upcoming general elections.
By validating Adeboye’s stance, Obi aims to appeal to a broader constituency while maintaining a firm, critical edge against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Nigeria has continued to grapple with deep-seated security challenges, including North-West Banditry: Persistent raids and mass kidnappings affecting rural farming communities.
The escalating rates of highway ambushes and the food inflation that has caused existing hardship on Nigerians.
The Presidency has yet to issue an official response to Obi’s remarks. However, APC stakeholders have historically defended the administration’s security track record, pointing to increased budgetary allocations to the military and the recent acquisition of advanced hardware.
With Obi formally cementing his position on the NDC ticket, his latest rhetoric signals an aggressive, security-focused campaign strategy designed to frame the current administration as well-meaning but ultimately exhausted.
