Democracy Day: Peter Obi Laments Rising Poverty, Insecurity, and Economic Decline

Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s worsening state, describing the current situation as “depressing” during a Democracy Day press conference held on Thursday.

Obi, who paid tribute to late democratic icon MKO Abiola and other figures who fought for civil rule, questioned the sincerity of the current administration’s commitment to democracy, even though President Bola Tinubu was part of the pro-democracy struggle.

“Despite having democratic structures in place, Nigeria today cannot be said to be a democracy in practice,” Obi stated. “What we have is a country where insecurity, poverty, and corruption are entrenched, and where key sectors like healthcare and education are in critical condition.”

Citing recent statistics, Obi pointed out that poverty has deepened significantly under the current administration. “In 2023, about 38.9% of Nigerians lived below the poverty line. Today, that figure has risen to 54%,” he said.

He also criticized the state of primary healthcare in the country, claiming fewer than 10% of primary health centres are functional. Drawing from his recent visits across states, Obi recounted tragic scenes in under-equipped maternity wards. “In some cases, childbirth is a 50/50 gamble for both mother and child,” he noted.

Addressing the food crisis, Obi said hunger levels have soared, forcing many Nigerians into what he called “professional begging,” while inflation continues to erode purchasing power. “Most citizens can no longer afford basic food items,” he stressed.

He also referenced a recent World Health Organisation report that over 20 million Nigerians suffer from mental health challenges, a crisis he attributed to worsening socio-economic conditions.

“Rather than address these issues, public funds continue to be mismanaged. Corruption is at an all-time high, and the National Assembly is reportedly involved in budget padding scandals while the citizens suffer,” Obi said.

On the energy sector, he blasted the government for increased electricity tariffs despite failing to provide stable power. “Nigerians now pay more for more darkness. This contradicts the president’s campaign promise to fix the power sector within four years,” he added.

Obi concluded by warning that the state of the nation in the past two years signals a grim preview of what may lie ahead if current trends continue unchecked.

His comments add to growing public criticism on Democracy Day, a date meant to celebrate Nigeria’s return to civilian rule but now serving as a rallying point for frustrations over economic decline, insecurity, and lack of tangible reforms.