‘I can change Nigeria in two years’, Peter Obi calls for economic reform

The former candidate for the President of the State Governor and Labor Party in 2023, Peter Obi, has greatly criticized the economic policy of the Government of the Tinubu Bola President, on the grounds that poor governance and lack of productivity have deepened the Nigerian economic crisis.

Speaking in an interview at Arise News Prime Time on Tuesday night, Obi condemned the decision to float Naira without a strong foundation to increase productivity, as well as rapid increase in the country’s debt profile.

He regretted that the cost of debt service now exceeded the budget allocation for critical sectors such as health and education.

Drawing contrast directly, Obi argues that if he was elected president, Nigeria will experience “drastic positive changes” within two years.

“The president has served for almost two years, and see where we are. That means you can change the situation in two years. If I am there, you will see a large enough increase in critical areas. I will overcome corruption directly and reduce government costs. Every nira that borrowed will be invested in the main sectors,” Obi said.

He expressed concern about the increase in Nigerian interest rates, which he said had made it more difficult for businesses to survive.

“Administration is currently inheriting the debt of around N17 trillion; today, more than N170 trillion. The company is closed due to interest rates of more than 40%. How do you expect businesses to develop?” He asked.

Obi further emphasized that under his leadership, the main health care center and school would be a top priority, noting that more than 70% of PHC is currently not functioning.

In the midst of internal quarrels in the Labor Party (LP), Obi accused the Federal government of triggering a crisis to confuse the opposition. However, he reiterated his loyalty to the party, adding that every change in his political affiliation would be announced openly.

Also read: Bwala Questioning Democratic Credentials Peter Obi

“I am still in the Labor Party. The doubt you see in LP are caused by the federal government. If there is a change, I will tell the Nigerians,” he said.

In the ongoing discussion with Atiku Abubakar and other political leaders, Obi insisted that his priority was Nigeria’s progress, not a personal ambition.

“The election was won and lost by the voice of the people. But we are not in democracy. I work with other people, not because I really want to be president, but because I really want to see Nigeria work.”

The former presidential candidate also criticized the handling of the federal government of the Rivers state crisis, which increased to the declaration of emergencies.

“What happens in the state of Rivers is very unfortunate. Some people make the country unregulated for political reasons. Stating the emergency weakens the remaining small democracy,” Obi complained.

He accused the administration currently holding back opposition and freedom of speech, showing that political persecution and intimidation have become commonplace.

“There is no democracy without functional legislative and independent judiciary. Today, people are detained to express their opinions. I face harassment every day. Nigerian political space is designed to suppress opposition, unlike South Africa, where proportional representation strengthens democracy,” he added.

When asked about his plan for the 2027 presidential election, Obi remained careful, insisting that the current focus was to improve Nigeria rather than securing power.

“Yes, I am part of the coalition, but any alliance must prioritize the future of Nigeria. We need to invest in education, health, and infrastructure – not only looking for strength for their own interests. I am not desperate to become president, but I really want to see Nigeria work,” he repeated.

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