Obi Challenges Tinubu To Be Using Nigerian Healthcare, APC Fires Back
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election, has urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritize Nigerian healthcare services over seeking medical treatment abroad. The former governor of Anambra State emphasized that by utilizing local medical facilities, the President would set a positive example for Nigerians and help reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign medical trips.
Obi suggested that President Tinubu visit prominent healthcare centers such as the National Hospital in Abuja or Federal Medical Centres in various states, to gain firsthand insight into the state of the country’s health infrastructure. He argued that this would not only encourage confidence in Nigerian hospitals but also provide the President with a clearer understanding of what is needed to improve the sector.
“Consider using our national hospitals for your health checks,” Obi said during a press briefing in Abuja. “It’s crucial for the President to personally evaluate the healthcare system and see how it can be enhanced. A visit to facilities in Abuja, Sokoto, Birnin Kebbi, and other regional medical centers will give you a realistic view of the conditions.”
The Labour Party’s candidate also took aim at the frequent overseas trips made by Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. Over the past 18 months, the duo has traveled to 27 countries, with Tinubu alone spending 124 days abroad. This has fueled rumors, especially regarding trips to France, which some suspect may have been for medical purposes.
Obi further challenged the President to personally experience Nigeria’s infrastructure by traveling overland, citing his own experience as governor when he took former President Olusegun Obasanjo on a road trip to inspect the state of federal highways. Obi believes such direct engagement would lead to a deeper understanding of the country’s challenges.
He also encouraged Tinubu to visit universities across Nigeria to assess the state of the nation’s educational system and ensure that resources like the Tertiary Education Trust Fund are being effectively utilized.
On the political front, Obi dismissed rumors about a potential merger with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). In response to questions, Obi clarified that he had no formal alliances with any political group but called on democratic forces to unite and challenge the ruling APC in the 2027 elections.
In a sharp rebuttal, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, criticized Obi’s comments as politically motivated. Morka dismissed Obi’s statements as misleading, accusing the former governor of seeking to undermine the progress made under Tinubu’s administration.
Morka defended the administration’s performance, highlighting improvements in the economy and reforms under President Tinubu’s leadership. He also pointed to Obi’s tenure as Anambra’s governor, accusing him of failing to achieve significant changes during his eight years in office.
“While Obi continues to stir discontent, President Tinubu is making tangible strides in transforming Nigeria, with the Renewed Hope Agenda guiding the country toward greater progress,” Morka said. “Nigerians should remain hopeful and confident in the leadership of President Tinubu.”
