Obi Slams Tinubu’s 12-Day Foreign Trip As Nigeria “Bleeds”

Peter Obi has lashed out at President Bola Tinubu over his planned 12-day trip to Brazil and Japan, calling it “insensitive” at a time when Nigeria is grappling with deepening insecurity, economic hardship, and widespread hunger.

In a statement on his X handle, the former presidential candidate accused Tinubu of showing “indifference” to the nation’s dire situation through frequent foreign travels, instead of visiting troubled states and directly addressing citizens’ concerns.

“Mr. President is not a tourist, but the Chief Executive of a troubled nation,” Obi said.

According to the Presidency, Tinubu is scheduled to depart Abuja on Thursday, August 14, for a two-nation tour, with a stopover in Dubai before proceeding to Japan for the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, from August 20 to 22. The itinerary does not state his return date.

Obi questioned the necessity of such a prolonged absence, noting that the event in Japan starts six days after his departure. He argued that any necessary foreign trip should be kept brief, especially in light of Nigeria’s worsening crises.

“Our President, who has not found time to visit any of our troubled states, is quick to jet off abroad at the slightest invitation. These overseas conferences add little or no tangible value to our nation’s woes,” Obi said.

He also referenced Tinubu’s last international engagement, which included a week-long state visit to St. Lucia before attending the BRICS Summit — where Nigeria was only present as an observer — contrasting this with leaders of member nations who arrived just a day or two before the event.

“Nigeria is now counted among the most insecure nations, the most fragile economies, and the hungriest countries in the world. This reality demands the President’s full attention — not extended stays abroad,” Obi stressed.

He urged Tinubu to prioritize security, economic stability, and ensuring food availability, adding that the President should embark on state tours to see, listen, and understand what Nigerians are going through.

“Though Nigerians know our problems won’t be solved overnight, they want to see 100% effort and tireless commitment. Most importantly, Mr. President must remember: he’s not a tourist,” Obi said.

He concluded with his trademark optimism: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”