The presidency has criticised Peter Obi following his reaction to President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Saint Lucia, calling the statement misleading and lacking clear direction.
This recent exchange adds to the continuous clash between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Labour Party. Obi, who ran as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, had condemned President Tinubu’s official visit to the Caribbean nation.
His comment came shortly after reports emerged about severe flooding in Minna, Niger State, which reportedly killed over 200 people and left many unaccounted for.
Obi questioned the timing of the president’s trip, referring to it as a “leisure visit” and criticised him for what he described as neglecting pressing national issues. He also accused the current administration of failing to give enough attention to domestic problems that require immediate action.
However, the presidency responded strongly through Fredrick Nwabufo, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Engagement. Nwabufo noted that Obi’s criticisms lack proper understanding of Nigeria’s foreign policy goals. He also accused Obi of repeatedly offering statements that contribute little to national discussion.
Nwabufo explained that Tinubu’s trip to Saint Lucia was not for fun but a move tied to Nigeria’s broader international goals. He said the island country serves as the headquarters of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States and is key to improving Nigeria’s presence and partnerships in the Caribbean.
He also noted that Tinubu’s visit is a step in Nigeria’s plan to boost its global standing and improve relationships that can benefit both the country and the African diaspora. According to him, many Nigerians abroad welcomed the visit and see it as a positive sign that the president is thinking globally.
Nwabufo also stated that Obi’s comment seemed aimed at gaining public attention without adding any meaningful value to the conversation. He warned that turning serious matters into political tools only creates more division and misleads the public.
He further noted that under Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria is beginning to rebuild its reputation on the international stage. He said the combination of focused leadership at home and active diplomacy abroad is helping to change how Nigeria is seen globally.
“The President’s broad-minded and enlightened leadership at home is colouring the grey canvas of global disinterestedness,” Nwabufo added.
