The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of worsening poverty in Nigeria, arguing that the government has accumulated huge debts without delivering corresponding improvements in citizens’ living conditions.
Obi made the remarks in a statement on Sunday, following his town hall meeting with residents of Imo State on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
The former Anambra State governor also criticised Tinubu for allegedly failing to spend a night in Imo State since assuming office, despite reportedly spending more than 260 days outside the country.
According to Obi, his visit to a market in Owerri before the town hall meeting exposed the growing economic difficulties confronting traders, buyers and other ordinary Nigerians.
He said the experiences shared by residents reflected the impact of the economic policies implemented by the Tinubu administration.
In his statement, Obi said:
“Our conversations and engagement with the people continued yesterday, 31st October 2026, as we journeyed from Yenagoa to Owerri, Imo State, for another edition of our ongoing town hall meeting series.
“Upon arrival, I began with a visit to one of the markets in Owerri, where I interacted with traders, buyers and other residents. Their stories and experiences offered yet another sobering reminder of how difficult life has become for ordinary Nigerians under the harsh economic policies of this administration.
“In my remarks at the town hall meeting, I reminded the good people of Imo State that, after more than three years in office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not considered it necessary to spend even one night in Imo State, despite spending over 260 days abroad.
“Meanwhile, his administration has accumulated enormous debts without delivering commensurate improvements in the lives of Nigerians. Our country is now ranked among the hungriest nations in the world, with over 140 million people living in multidimensional poverty. To compound this crisis, Nigeria remains one of the most terrorised countries in the world, while approximately 18 million children are out of school,” he stated.
Obi also addressed concerns raised during the interactive session about the protection of votes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged residents to participate actively in the electoral process, exercise their democratic rights and remain vigilant until the final results are announced.
The NDC presidential candidate further appreciated his supporters, party candidates, members, organisers and residents of Imo State for their reception and support during the visit.
He maintained that building a better Nigeria required collective effort, expressing optimism about the country’s future.
“The journey to a new Nigeria is a collective responsibility. Together, we can build a country that works for everyone.
“A New Nigeria is POssible, and Nigeria will be OK!” he concluded.
