The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over his comments on President Bola Tinubu’s recent vacation in Europe.
Tinubu left Abuja on Thursday for a 10-day working holiday as part of his 2025 annual leave. Obi, who has often faulted Tinubu’s handling of Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, argued that the president’s frequent trips abroad create the impression of a leader uneasy in his own country — at a time when his presence is most needed.
Responding in a statement on Saturday, Lagos APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo said Obi should not feel compelled to comment on every action of the president. He described Obi’s remarks as “opportunistic” and an attempt to stay relevant in political discourse.
Oladejo dismissed the suggestion that Tinubu’s short break would affect governance, stressing that the president remains fully briefed and in touch with his security and intelligence teams. He argued that in today’s digital age, leaders can govern effectively while on vacation.
He accused Obi of turning complex national issues into “talking points” and of offering “sound bites, sermons, and constant complaints” rather than constructive solutions.
“Must Peter Obi comment on everything? Governance is ongoing. Leadership doesn’t stop because a president takes time to rest,” Oladejo said, adding that Nigeria needs a credible and constructive opposition, not “a professional complainer.”
He further urged Obi to provide thoughtful contributions if he has them, instead of fueling social media reactions with “knee-jerk” remarks. According to him, the APC remains focused on rebuilding the economy, strengthening security, and restoring trust in public institutions.