Obi’s speech, titled “Democracy in Decline: Reflecting on Two Years of Tinubu’s Governance,” pointed to a broad erosion of democratic values since President Bola Tinubu took office. He criticized the government for celebrating failure, manipulating narratives, and failing to provide genuine accountability. The former Anambra State governor also underscored alarming economic indicators: Nigeria’s GDP halved from $364 billion in May 2023to $188 billion, per capita income dropped by nearly 50%, and poverty levels surged to 54%, with 129 million Nigerians now living below the poverty line.
Beyond economics, Obi drew attention to the collapse of social services, noting that 18.3 million children are out of school—the highest globally—and that less than 20% of primary health care centers are functional. He described schools lacking basic facilities and healthcare centers without toilets, painting a grim picture of public welfare.
Obi warned that the rule of law is virtually non-existent, governance is failing the people, and insecurity, corruption, and poverty are worsening. He called on President Tinubu to emulate past leaders who acknowledged electoral shortcomings and urged urgent reforms to save Nigeria’s democracy.
This address adds to growing concerns about Nigeria’s democratic trajectory amid economic hardship and governance challenges.
