Peter Obi Says Tinubu May Not Be Fully in Control of His Government

(Peter Obi. Photo by Vanguard News)

Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, says he sometimes thinks President Tinubu is not in full control of his administration.

Speaking in an interview, Obi said the President should speak directly to Nigerians about the country's problems instead of letting his advisers do the talking for him. Nobody speaks for him, Obi said, and he will talk directly to his people if elected.

Obi also questioned Tinubu's frequent trips abroad, saying he should instead be visiting states hit by insecurity like Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau and Kano to see the situation for himself.

He suggested the President should spend three days in each of these states to understand the security crisis.

When asked about the killing of Sardauna Sokoto, Obi denied any involvement, saying he was too young when those events happened.

He urged Nigerians to move past old grievances and work together to build a united country through love, unity and progress.

He expressed confidence that visible changes would come within four years of his presidency.

Obi identified insecurity as Nigeria's most pressing problem, saying it has stopped manufacturers from moving goods and prevented farmers from safely working on their farms.

He said securing the country would be his immediate priority if elected.

The former Anambra governor said he would start restructuring security in his first week by appointing capable security chiefs.

He promised to use all available resources and technology including drones and satellite surveillance to fight insecurity.

He also said he supports state police and will not negotiate with kidnappers or pay ransoms.

On fuel prices, Obi said he would eliminate corruption in the subsidy system, which would bring down the cost of petrol and other goods.

As an oil-producing nation, Nigeria should manage its resources in a way that benefits its citizens, he added.

Obi appealed to Northern voters, saying his administration would focus on reducing poverty, improving healthcare and developing skills.

He promised to moderate fuel prices and improve economic conditions for ordinary Nigerians regardless of where they live or what party they support.