FOLLOW KEIR STARMER’S FOOTSTEPS AND RESIGN, PETER OBI TELLS TINUBU
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By ‘Sefiu Ajape
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resign, citing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision to step down as an example of political accountability.
Obi made the call in a statement posted on X on Monday following Starmer’s announcement that he would leave office after less than two years as Prime Minister.
The former Anambra State governor argued that Starmer’s resignation reflected a culture of accountability in which leaders take responsibility for unmet promises and governance challenges.
Drawing parallels between the political situations in the United Kingdom and Nigeria, Obi recalled Tinubu’s criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan before the 2015 general election, particularly over insecurity and the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls.
According to Obi, the current administration has failed to deliver on key campaign promises made during the 2023 electioneering period, especially in the areas of electricity supply, security, anti-corruption efforts and economic welfare.
He said, “Owning Up to Leadership Failures and Political Responsibility
“This morning, I listened to the British Prime Minister’s speech announcing his planned resignation in July. As a keen observer of global politics, my primary interest lies in examining what successful nations do right and the structural factors that cause others to lag or struggle with governance and development.
“The Prime Minister’s planned resignation comes amid mounting public frustration over a stagnant economy, a worsening cost-of-living crisis, and a perceived failure to honour key campaign pledges.
“Looking inward in our dear country, we can recall our own situation. Before 2015, our President on several occasions championed the call for the then President Goodluck Jonathan to resign over economic hardship and insecurity affecting Nigerians. During the Chibok school kidnapping incident, he demanded the immediate resignation of President Jonathan, arguing that the government had failed in its most fundamental duty of protecting lives.
“During the 2023 election campaign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made several promises, including improved electricity supply. He also challenged the electorate not to vote for him for a second term if he failed to deliver on those commitments—particularly in providing stable power, fighting corruption, and improving the welfare of Nigerians.
“At present, however, these conditions have worsened. Electricity supply remains unreliable, insecurity has intensified in many areas, including kidnappings, and economic hardship has deepened rather than eased. Similar concerns are reflected across other critical sectors such as security, infrastructure, transportation, and anti-corruption efforts, all of which have regressed. We are in the worst possible condition.
“I, therefore, join Nigerians of goodwill in calling for the resignation of the President over monumental failure in governance. Such a gesture would help enthrone a political culture rooted in accountability and responsibility, rather than further entrenching impunity. It would also send a powerful message that public office is a sacred trust, not an entitlement, and help build a society in which future leaders understand that failure carries consequences. Only by ending the culture of impunity can we secure a better future for the society our children will inherit in a New Nigeria that is possible. -PO.”
Starmer announced his resignation on Monday, ending a premiership that lasted less than two years and was marked by policy reversals and mounting political pressure.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, the Labour leader said every decision he made while in office was guided by what he believed was best for the country. He also confirmed that he would step down as leader of the Labour Party while remaining Prime Minister until a successor is chosen.
According to Starmer, the process of electing a new Labour leader will begin in July, with a replacement expected to emerge by September.
The outgoing Prime Minister said his decision would allow him to spend more time with his family after years in public service. He thanked his wife, Vic, for her support throughout his political career and expressed a desire to spend more time with his children.
Starmer also acknowledged increasing pressure within the Labour Party over his leadership, saying he had accepted the party’s judgment on whether he remained the best person to lead it into the next general election.
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