Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what he described as a lack of compassion and disregard for the wellbeing of Nigerians.

Speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, Obi said the country needs a leader who genuinely cares about the people, adding that he would embody such leadership if elected president in 2027.

“People want to get up and see a president that cares, a president that shows compassion,” he said. “Today we have a country without compassion. Leadership without compassion does not exist. It is a minus. It is not good for a country.”

Obi cited specific instances to back his claims, including President Tinubu’s decision to spend Christmas in Lagos in December 2024 while a tragic stampede at a children’s Christmas party in Ibadan claimed several young lives. “There is no compassion. People lost their children — children who would lead this country in the future — and he went for a Christmas holiday,” Obi said.

He also criticised Tinubu for failing to visit Yelwata in Benue State, the site of a violent attack, despite making a general visit to the state. Obi said such omissions reflect a lack of sensitivity to the suffering of citizens.

The former Anambra State governor’s remarks come amid growing discontent over the economic and security situation in the country. His comments signal a renewed effort to position himself as a leading opposition voice ahead of the 2027 general elections.