Obi warns Nigeria is “collapsing” under Tinubu

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has issued a stark warning about Nigeria’s direction under President Bola Tinubu, saying the country is “collapsing” and becoming more divided, with the risk of deeper instability if current trends continue.

Obi made the remarks on Tuesday during the African Democratic Congress convention in Abuja, where opposition figures gathered to discuss the country’s political future ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to him, Nigeria’s socio-economic indicators have worsened significantly since the current administration took office, pointing to rising poverty levels and expanding national debt as key warning signs.

“The country is collapsing, and if you allow it to go further, it would be worse,” he said, arguing that national unity is being eroded and political divisions are deepening.

Obi also criticised the government’s fiscal approach, referencing subsidy removal and increased borrowing, which he said have not translated into improved living conditions for citizens.

He claimed that poverty levels have risen sharply, arguing that the country is now facing a far more severe economic crisis than before.

While the presidency did not respond to his comments, official projections from economic reports have also indicated a worsening poverty outlook, with millions of Nigerians expected to fall below the poverty line in the coming years if current conditions persist.

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Rising tension ahead of 2027 political cycle

Obi’s comments come at a time of increasing political friction, as opposition voices continue to challenge the government’s economic policies and governance direction.

He warned that failure to reverse current trends could push the country into deeper instability, stressing the need for urgent national sacrifice and reform.

“We are heading to disaster,” he said, adding that the consequences of poor governance would eventually affect all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation.

The remarks add to the growing political debate ahead of the 2027 elections, where economic performance, debt levels, and cost-of-living pressures are expected to dominate national conversations.