Peter Obi: Nigerians Living Like Refugees
Peter Obi: Nigeria Is a Failing State Where Citizens Live Like Refugees
Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, economic hardship, and systemic failures.
Speaking at an event in Abuja on Tuesday, June 10, Obi described Nigeria as a nation in crisis — a “crime scene” in urgent need of transformation.
According to Obi, although Nigeria is not officially at war, the harsh realities on the ground suggest otherwise. He highlighted the plight of millions who are displaced within Nigeria and others who have sought refuge in neighboring countries due to violence and neglect.
“Today in Nigeria, we’re not officially at war, yet Nigerians are living in IDP camps in their own country. Nigerians are refugees in Chad, in Cameroon. And the only reason is because we don’t have a government that cares for them,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor warned that the nation is heading toward collapse unless decisive action is taken. He criticized the political elite for ignoring the suffering of ordinary Nigerians, likening the situation to historical collapses in places like Beirut and Afghanistan.
“Some people are dancing while the ship is sinking. When it finally goes down, it will consume everyone — rich or poor. I’ve seen this before. Crisis does not discriminate,” Obi cautioned.
He also denounced the government’s misplaced priorities, where resources are spent on cosmetic projects and luxury while basic human needs remain unmet.
“We use public funds to renovate offices and build mansions, while women die giving birth. A report says one woman dies every seven minutes in Nigeria during childbirth. Millions of children are out of school, yet we celebrate mediocrity. That’s the system we must dismantle.”
Obi emphasized that Nigeria’s problems are rooted in poor leadership and an economy devoid of real value creation. He accused political and business leaders of hoarding wealth rather than building sustainable systems.
“Our leaders are producing poverty. When money is hoarded without generating value, it destroys the economy. A healthy economy is built on productivity and the fair exchange of value.”
Touching on economic reforms, Obi voiced support for currency devaluation and fuel subsidy removal but stressed that such measures must be accompanied by systemic reform and a crackdown on corruption.
“Yes, I support removing fuel subsidy — but only after we remove the criminal elements in the system. If we restore trust and eliminate corruption, the naira will find stability. It’s already happening in Ghana and Angola. Why not Nigeria?”
In closing, Obi urged Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s future and commit to rebuilding a nation that serves all, not just the privileged few.
Peter Obi: Nigerians Living Like Refugees