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Tag: Peter Obi

Nigerian Senate Approves Additional $21 Billion in External Loans, Pushing Public Debt Toward N200 Trillion

Fola Badmus04 mins

The Nigerian Senate has approved an additional external borrowing package of $21 billion, €2.2 billion, and ¥15 billion for the 2025–2026 fiscal cycle, further raising concerns over the nation’s rising debt profile. In addition, a domestic bond issuance of N750.98 billion and a €65 million grant were also approved. This latest approval could push Nigeria’s total public debt to approximately N187 trillion, up from N149.39 trillion as recorded in the first quarter of 2025. With this trend, experts warn that the country’s total debt may exceed N200 trillion by the end of the year. Before the recent GDP rebasing, Nigeria’s gross domestic product was estimated at N269.2 trillion (approximately $180 billion), meaning the approved loans represent nearly 70% of the country’s GDP. Even with the rebased GDP of N372.8 trillion ($243.7 billion), Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio would still stand at 50.16%—the highest in the nation’s history. Despite the significant increase in borrowing—N27.72 trillion year-on-year and N4.72 trillion quarter-on-quarter—critics argue that these debts have yet to yield tangible improvements in key sectors such as education, healthcare, power, and national security. Nigeria continues to rank low on major human development indicators. Education remains underfunded, healthcare is largely inaccessible to the poor, and insecurity persists. Between May 29, 2023, and May 29, 2025, over 10,217 Nigerians were killed and 672 villages sacked, even as security spending rose from N2.98 trillion in 2023 to N4.91 trillion in 2025. Infrastructure development has also lagged, with 135,000km out of the country’s 195,000km road network remaining unpaved, making transportation across many regions nearly impossible. The power sector remains in crisis, supplying less than 5,000 megawatts of electricity to over 200 million citizens. Meanwhile, poverty and hunger are deepening. Over 133 million Nigerians (63%) are now classified as multi-dimensionally poor, and a worsening malnutrition crisis has claimed the lives of 652 children in Northern Nigeria, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Katsina State has been identified as one of the worst-hit regions. Despite the country’s abundant natural and human resources, critics say a persistent leadership failure has exacerbated Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges. There are growing calls for greater transparency and accountability in how public funds and loans are utilized. “Borrowing is not inherently bad,” one policy analyst noted, “but it must be tied to productive investments with measurable outcomes. Unfortunately, what we see is reckless borrowing without accountability, mortgaging the future of young and unborn Nigerians.” Analysts are urging the government to adopt a more disciplined economic strategy—cutting the cost of governance, plugging financial leakages, and prioritizing investments in human capital and productivity. “It’s time to end fiscal indiscipline and build a New Nigeria,” the analyst added. “One where leadership is responsible, development is people-centered, and every kobo borrowed delivers measurable impact for sustainable and inclusive growth.”

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Oshiomhole Clarifies Comment on Peter Obi’s Visit to Edo, Says Media Exaggerated Narrative

Oshiomhole Clarifies Comment on Peter Obi’s Visit to Edo, Says Media Exaggerated Narrative

Fola Badmus05 mins

By: Kamal YalwaJuly 26, 2025 Former Governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has addressed the controversy surrounding remarks about Peter Obi’s recent visit to a state-owned facility in Edo, stating that the media exaggerated the incident. Speaking during a public engagement, Oshiomhole said there was no personal rift between him and the Labour Party presidential candidate, whom he described as a former colleague and someone he still holds in high regard despite their differing political views. “I think the media tried to exaggerate it,” Oshiomhole said. “You know, people who don’t talk too much must choose how they communicate. The essential message was clear: Obi and I know each other well, and I like him—I still do—but politically, we don’t agree.” The Senator narrated how, in early June, he was invited to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to deliver a lecture. In anticipation of the trip, he made efforts to notify the Enugu State Governor out of respect and protocol, even though he is no longer a serving governor. “I asked my orderly to get the phone number of the Governor. When he finally reached the Governor’s ADC, I requested that my visit be conveyed to His Excellency and that I would appreciate security support from the airport to Nsukka. There’s no law mandating this—it’s simply about decency and mutual respect.” Oshiomhole recounted a similar precedent from his time as Governor of Edo State when former President Olusegun Obasanjo—despite their strained relationship during Oshiomhole’s time as Nigeria Labour Congress President—formally informed him of a visit to Edo State and requested logistical and security support. “Obasanjo came to my residence, and when the media asked why, he said, and I quote: ‘Whomever you think you are, when visiting a state, there is a constitutional authority in that state. Out of respect, you inform the Governor.’” He stressed that Peter Obi, though well-intentioned, should have extended the same courtesy when visiting a government-owned nursing school in Edo State—an institution fully built, funded, and maintained by the state government. “It’s not a private facility. It’s owned 100% by the Edo State Government. So, even if Obi has good intentions, as a former Governor, he should understand the importance of protocol and decency in such cases.” Oshiomhole concluded by stating that Governor Godwin Obaseki’s concerns were not about seeking permission, but a matter of basic courtesy and administrative order. “Maybe it was a question of how people interpreted the Governor’s choice of words. But the message was clear: if you’re coming to a state facility, it’s just respectful to notify the sitting Governor. It’s not about protocol or permission—it’s about decency.”

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Wike Mocks Peter Obi for Serving Food at Party, Backs Edo Governor’s Warning

Fola Badmus02 mins

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, over a recent video showing him serving food at an event. Speaking on Tuesday during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, Wike described Obi’s action as a “show of shame” aimed at deceiving Nigerians into believing he is humble. “This is not where a presidential candidate will begin to serve food. No! No!! How long will he be serving the food? As a president, you will be carrying food and serving? And then Nigerians are laughing. Who told you that is humility?” Wike said. The former Rivers State governor also backed Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo over his recent warning to Obi to seek security clearance before visiting Edo. Wike argued that Okpebholo’s stance was necessary for public safety and should not be misinterpreted as hostility. Wike further criticised Nigerians for supporting what he called “political theatrics,” urging them to demand sincerity from leaders rather than “wayo” (deception).

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Reno Omokri, Northern Youth Slam Peter Obi for Snubbing Buhari’s Burial

Fola Badmus03 mins

Former presidential aide Reno Omokri and a prominent Northern youth influencer, Sarki, have criticized Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for his absence at the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday. The funeral, which drew top dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemi Osinbajo, and other political heavyweights, was a major state event. However, Peter Obi was conspicuously missing. In a post on X, Reno Omokri accused Obi of showing disregard for the North and questioned his national loyalty. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was in Daura from beginning to end, showing his personal devotion to General Muhammadu Buhari and his commitment to the North. Arewa, remember who was not there!” Omokri wrote. Omokri further recalled past remarks by Obi, alleging that his recent positions confirm his bias. “On October 19, 2024, during General Gowon’s 90th birthday, Peter Obi called him ‘an enemy’ to be forgiven. And today, when General Buhari, the successor to Ahmadu Bello, was being buried, Peter Obi was nowhere to be found,” he stated. He also referenced Obi’s comments on the trial of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, suggesting they reveal his “true allegiance.” “In 2027, Nigeria needs a truly Nigerian president in Aso Rock, not a pretender whose true allegiance lies elsewhere,” Omokri added. Similarly, Northern youth leader Sarki warned that Obi’s absence could affect his chances in the 2027 presidential race. “Peter Obi didn’t attend President Muhammadu Buhari’s burial. This is the same man who expects northerners to hand over Nigeria to him. Let’s see how he plans to become president without our votes,” Sarki posted on X. Both Omokri and Sarki are known critics of Obi, who finished third in the 2023 general elections. Meanwhile, activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam questioned President Tinubu’s decision to declare a public holiday in honour of the late Buhari.

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Atiku, Peter Obi Mourn Buhari’s Demise

Fola Badmus04 mins

Former Nigeria’s Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubarkar and Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi has mourned the passing of former Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari. Buhari breathe his last on Sunday in London after losing battle to an undisclossed illness. According to Atiku, he said; “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a man whose life was defined by unflinching patriotism, stoic discipline, and a lifelong commitment to the sovereignty and unity of our great nation. “President Buhari was not just a former Head of State, he was a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience. From the battlefield to the corridors of power, he served with the kind of austere conviction and firm belief in duty that marked him as a soldier of principle and a leader of formidable will. “His death is not just a loss to his immediate family and the people of Daura, it is a profound national tragedy. Nigeria has lost a statesman who bore the burdens of leadership in both turbulent and triumphant times and whose legacy will be remembered for generations to come. “To his beloved family, I offer my deepest condolences. I pray for strength and comfort in this time of grief. To the people of Katsina State and the entire nation, I mourn with you. May we all take solace in the knowledge that he gave his life to the service of Nigeria and never wavered in his belief in her promise. “May Allah, the Most Merciful, forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus.” -AA In a similar vein, Peter Obi took to his Twitter handle now X to express his sadness of the former president’s demise. “I have just received the very sad news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari in London. His death provides a solemn moment, not just for his family and close associates, but for our nation as a whole. “President Buhari has always comported himself in a dignified manner as a leader. “To his wife, children, extended family, and to all Nigerians I extend my deepest condolences. “May Almighty Allah, Most Gracious and Most Merciful, forgive President Buhari’s shortcomings, reward his efforts in service to the nation, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. “Ameen,” the former Anambra State Governor prayed.

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ADC Coalition: Obidients Free to Support Obi, I Have Right to Back Atiku — Dele Momodu

Fola Badmus03 mins

ABUJA — Media mogul and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Dele Momodu, has reaffirmed his support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as his preferred presidential candidate under the emerging opposition coalition. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Momodu emphasized that his support for Atiku does not invalidate the loyalty of Obidients — supporters of Peter Obi — or any other aspirants within the ADC framework. “My best choice is Atiku, and that’s what I expect Obidients to say about Obi, and Amaechi’s supporters to say about Amaechi,” Momodu said. “This is a game of numbers, and the north remains the most aggrieved region today.” He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of pushing for a southern candidate to emerge within the opposition, claiming it stems from fear of Atiku’s political strength. “They are afraid of Atiku. That’s why they keep promoting campaigns of calumny against him,” he alleged. Momodu stressed the importance of democracy within the coalition, calling on all aspirants to submit themselves to the party’s primary process. “I have never told anyone not to support Obi. He is a very good friend of mine,” he said. “But let everyone go to the field. Let Obidients campaign for Obi, Atikulates for Atiku, and Amaechi’s supporters for him. Let the people decide.” Reiterating his admiration for Atiku, Momodu said the former vice president remains, in his view, a strong example of the leadership Nigeria needs, especially as the ADC prepares to challenge the APC in the 2027 elections.

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2027: Martha Agba South-South APC Stakeholders Endorse Tinubu for Second Term

Fola Badmus02 mins

Prominent political leader Martha Agba joined key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benin City for a high-level South-South Stakeholders Meeting, where the region formally reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid ahead of the 2027 general elections. The strategic gathering brought together a formidable coalition of APC faithful, including Governors of Delta, Akwa Ibom, Edo, and Cross River States, zonal party executives, and former governors—most notably Senator Ben Ayade of Cross River State. The President of the Senate led a robust delegation of National Assembly members from the region, underscoring growing internal unity and the APC’s preparedness to retain national leadership. Addressing the gathering, Martha Agba restated her unwavering support for President Tinubu and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, pledging to continue mobilizing grassroots support for their re-election efforts. She also used the platform to encourage young women across the South-South to take active roles in politics, urging them to prepare for elective positions in 2027. “Inclusive participation is essential for a truly representative democracy,” she said. The meeting concluded with the Senate President delivering the closing remarks and reading a communiqué in which the APC South-South leaders unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as their candidate for a second term. With this endorsement, the APC aims to consolidate its base across the South-South, rallying support amid a tightening race as opposition forces also mobilize nationwide.

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2027: ADC Coalition Leaders Begin Grassroots Mobilisation Nationwide

Fola Badmus05 mins

Published: July 6, 2025 | By Kamal Yalwa As Nigeria’s 2027 general elections draw closer, the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition has officially begun grassroots mobilisation efforts across the country. The coalition’s interim national chairman, Senator David Mark, and national secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, have returned to their respective states—Benue and Osun—to galvanise support from local political bases. According to sources within the party, each coalition leader has been assigned a geo-political zone for mobilisation. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will lead mobilisation efforts in the North East, Mark in the North Central, and former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai in the North West. In the southern regions, Peter Obi will coordinate activities in the South East, Rotimi Amaechi in the South-South, and Aregbesola in the South West. While Mark’s presence in Benue coincided with a family event, insiders say he is expected to meet local political stakeholders. Aregbesola, meanwhile, was welcomed by loyalists as he transited through Lagos to Osun State. Atiku reportedly met with ADC leaders from Gombe State in Abuja last Friday, indicating an intensifying momentum. Confirming the developments, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said coalition leaders had been directed to consult widely within their zones and would reconvene in Abuja in two weeks to assess progress. Other key politicians such as Maina Waziri in Yobe and Emeka Ihedioha in Imo have also begun rallying support in their respective states. The official unveiling of the ADC-led coalition in Abuja last Wednesday sent ripples across Nigeria’s political landscape, especially as the PDP and Labour Party remain entangled in internal leadership crises. Prominent political figures—including Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai, Amaechi, Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu, and Senator David Mark—attended the coalition’s unveiling, signalling a serious opposition challenge to the ruling APC. While APC officials have downplayed the coalition, Senator Mark declared that the ADC alliance is committed to rescuing Nigeria from its current challenges. Political watchers are divided. While some believe the coalition’s political heavyweights still wield considerable influence, others warn the ruling party not to underestimate the opposition’s grassroots potential. Former APC Abuja chairman Sunny Moniedafe noted that widespread hardship could make the 2027 elections unpredictable, while Senator Abubakar Girei dismissed the coalition as a group of “disgruntled politicians” with no clear ideology. Still, groups like the Arewa Youths for the Sustenance of Democracy caution the APC against complacency, describing the coalition as politically savvy with nationwide reach. Responding to critics, Atiku’s aide Hon. Oladimeji Fabiyi maintained that the coalition has strong grassroots appeal and national credibility, backed by the political clout of its members. As mobilisation accelerates, one thing is clear—Nigeria’s political scene is heating up fast, and the ADC coalition is shaping up to be a formidable force in the 2027 race.

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