The All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, recently criticized Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, calling him a “prophet of doom.” The APC’s spokesperson, Felix Morka, issued this statement on Thursday, January 3rd, in response to Obi’s earlier comments about the state of the nation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In a press conference that same day, Obi expressed concerns over the worsening economy and deteriorating security situation in the country, claiming they had declined over the past 18 months. He called on President Tinubu to personally visit public hospitals and travel on Nigerian roads to witness the state of infrastructure firsthand.
The APC, however, dismissed Obi’s remarks as misleading and politically motivated. According to Morka, Nigeria’s economy has seen substantial improvements since Tinubu assumed office. He accused Obi of attempting to stir up negativity and misrepresenting the country’s progress.
“While Nigerians are embracing the new year with optimism for a brighter 2025, Peter Obi remains stuck in a cycle of pessimistic rhetoric,” Morka stated.
“Obi’s New Year message, in which he claimed that our dear country’s political, economic, and security situation is worsening daily, is misleading and appears intended to score cheap political points.
He argued that the country’s economic indicators suggest a positive trajectory, citing increased foreign investments, improved trade balances, and higher revenue allocations to states and local governments as evidence of progress. Additionally, Morka highlighted advancements in sectors such as oil production, refinery revitalization, and national security.
Public reactions to the exchange have been divided. Supporters of Obi argue that his critiques reflect the lived realities of ordinary Nigerians who continue to grapple with challenges in healthcare, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. They see his call for accountability and closer engagement by the President as a necessary push for improved governance.
Additionally, APC supporters believe Obi’s comments are an attempt to score political points, undermining the administration’s genuine efforts to improve the country. They point to the Tinubu administration’s reforms as paving the way for sustainable growth.