On January 1st, 2023, Labour Party’s presidential candidate and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, made a bold statement on X (formerly Twitter). He urged Nigerians to hold him accountable for his promises of a better nation, stating, “I call on Nigerians to hold me accountable to my promises for a better nation, when I am elected. I have made a pact with Nigerians and I will not leave any of my promises unfulfilled. Nigerians can hold me accountable by my words of promise.”
Fast forward to 2024, and the conversation surrounding Peter Obi has taken an unexpected turn. Many Nigerians, particularly on social media, have begun expressing frustration, not necessarily with the elected government, but with Peter Obi himself. The heart of the issue seems to be a confusion over the roles of opposition leaders versus sitting presidents.
On X (formerly known as Twitter) is widespread with comments from users who appear to misdirect their criticism towards Peter Obi instead of the current administration. Users such as @imerm_jnr and @Arewaaconnect have criticized Obi for not actively solving Nigeria’s pressing economic issues or showing sympathy towards Nigerians especially those in the North East, despite his position as an opposition leader rather than the president.
In most democracy government, the role of an opposition leader is to offer checks and balances to the government, criticize policies, and propose alternatives. Peter Obi, as the opposition figure, is not in a position to enact policies directly or forcefully. Yet, the expectation from some corners appears to suggest that he should be more hands on in addressing Nigeria’s economic crisis. The reality, however, is that Obi has no voting right to govern.
Although Obi can use his position to criticize and advise, ultimately, the responsibility for the economic development of Nigeria rests with the current government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who stepped into office on May 29, 2023. Expecting Obi to fix the country’s problems or take the current president’s role is a misunderstanding of how government structures work.
The Nigerian economy has faced significant challenges, including inflation of prices with goods and services, fuel subsidy removal, and rising unemployment rates due to companies shutting down and leaving the country. Much of the public’s frustration is justified, but the powers to address these issues falls largely on the shoulders of the elected government. The opposition candidate’s role is to voice concerns and propose alternatives, which Peter Obi has done on several occasions.
For example, Obi has consistently emphasized the need for more wisely thought economic management styles, a diversification of streams of income asides crude oil, and a reduction of government waste. He has emphasised on using infrastructure and education as drivers of economic development which has remained a central point to his political beliefs.
It is important for the public to channel their frustrations toward the right body. Blaming Peter Obi for the recession when he has no formal authority will detract from the focus on holding the government accountable. Constructive criticism and citizen participation are essential, but must be accompanied by a commitment to governance.
As Nigerians continue to struggle with economic difficulties which come by everyday,
it is important to clearly distinguish between the roles of the opposition parties and the elected government. Although Peter Obi remains a political figure and fighter for what is best for Nigerians, the responsibility for managing the economy rests with the incumbent president and his administration. Nigerians needs to hold the government in power accountable, to ensure a better future for the country and her people.
At the end of the day, Nigeria’s journey to economic stability and tranquility will need more than just finger-pointing, pushing blames and responsibilities, or picking sides. Nigerians must learn to unite beyond banters, shades and online wars against other nations to really awaken the sleeping giant of Africa. We will be great again!
