By Muhammad Mamman
In a fiery statement that’s sparking debate, political strategist Olatorera Oniru has dropped a bombshell: Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s darling and former Anambra governor, would’ve been no savior for Nigeria’s crumbling economy. According to Oniru, even if Obi had clinched the presidency, he’d be navigating the same brutal economic terrain as President Bola Tinubu—marked by decades of mismanagement, including Obi’s own contributions.
Same Policies, Same Pain? Oniru doesn’t hold back, arguing that Obi’s presidency would’ve mirrored Tinubu’s toughest calls: fuel subsidy removal and currency unification. Both, she says, were moves Obi endorsed, but they’ve unleashed chaos. “Fuel subsidy removal triggered unprecedented hardship and tens of thousands of untimely deaths,” Oniru stated, slamming the lack of foundational reforms. Currency unification? It’s driven giants like Bolt, Jumia Foods, GlaxoSmithKline, and Shell to scale back or exit Nigeria entirely since 2023.
“Obi might’ve brought a softer tone, more relatable rhetoric, and tighter budgeting,” Oniru concedes, “but the hardship would’ve persisted.” She points to Obi’s 2006-2014 tenure as Anambra governor, where his budget discipline earned praise but left the state grappling with weak systems, poor infrastructure, and a dismal GDP per capita. “Not exactly the transformative leadership Nigeria needs,” she quips.
A Missed Opportunity or False Messiah? While Obi’s “Obidient” movement galvanized millions with hope, Oniru questions if he could’ve delivered the sweeping change Nigeria craves. Could he have rebuilt institutions, revived civil service professionalism, or ensured equitable infrastructure? “Maybe,” she says, “but not certainly.” Despite his wealth and experience, Oniru argues Obi’s record falls short of the bold, ethical, and patriotic leadership Nigeria demands.
The Call to Action Oniru’s message is clear: Nigeria’s future hinges on performance-based governance, not emotional hero-worship. “The Obidients were right to demand change, but lasting change is built, not wished,” she declares. She urges Nigerians to rally behind leaders with proven track records—builders with bold blueprints, not fleeting messiahs.
