Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the current state of governance in Nigeria, describing it as a “crime scene” that must be dismantled if the country is to work.
Speaking at a public forum on May 6, 2025, Obi declared, “What I’m doing now is not politics. We must dismantle this criminality as it is today if we want the country to work. Other nations are making it work — there’s no reason why Nigeria should not.”
Obi criticised the prevailing system where hardworking citizens are neglected while unproductive individuals exploit national resources. “It’s not easy to work in Nigeria today. Those who work are not cared for; those who don’t are stealing the money,” he said.
He also addressed Nigeria’s standing as the “poverty capital of the world,” highlighting reports by UNICEF, the World Bank, and the World Health Organization (WHO). He cited a UNICEF report indicating that Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children globally and one of the highest rates of infant and maternal mortality.
“UNICEF said we have the highest number of out-of-school children, yet the money meant to fix the education sector is being looted. WHO tells us our infant and maternal mortality is among the worst, but healthcare funds are diverted,” Obi said.
Obi’s fiery remarks reflect his continued push for governance reform, transparency, and accountability. He warned that without urgent systemic change, Nigeria risks deeper instability and suffering.
His comments come amid growing frustration among Nigerians over the state of public services, widespread corruption, and economic hardship.
