The All Progressives Congress (APC) has refuted claims made by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, regarding Nigeria’s political, economic, and security challenges. The ruling party insists the nation’s economy is recovering significantly across various sectors.
Obi, speaking at a New Year press conference, expressed concern over the worsening state of the nation, citing declining economic indicators, widespread insecurity, and rising poverty levels.
“Our national challenges are visibly worsening,” Obi said. “Nigeria remains one of the poverty capitals of the world, with over 100 million people living in extreme poverty and more than 150 million in multidimensional poverty. Our GDP has plummeted from $574 billion in 2014 to less than $200 billion today, with per capita income now barely $1,000.”
He further highlighted Nigeria’s low ranking on the Global Peace Index, widespread food insecurity, and displacement of communities due to violence, adding that the current administration’s policies had exacerbated these issues.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC dismissed Obi’s claims as misleading and politically motivated. “This claim, at a time when all indicators show that our country is rebounding across all sectors, casts Obi as Nigeria’s leading doomsayer,” Morka said.
The statement outlined several achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, including:
- Economic Growth: Record trade surpluses, increased foreign direct investments, and improved stock market performance.
- Debt and Revenue Management: A decline in the debt servicing ratio from 90% to 64% and measures to boost national revenue.
- Infrastructure and Industry: Restarting the moribund Port Harcourt and Warri refineries and increased oil production.
- Security: Decimation of terrorist leaders and improvement in security conditions.
- Agriculture: Higher incomes for farmers and initiatives to enhance food production.
President Tinubu, in his New Year message, acknowledged the challenges posed by inflation and high food prices but reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to lowering food costs and increasing local drug production. He also vowed to reduce the inflation rate from 34% to 15% during the fiscal year.
The APC also took aim at Obi’s tenure as governor of Anambra State, arguing that he left no legacy of significant achievement. “It is ironic that Peter Obi, who now claims to have all the solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, has no transformational record from his eight years as governor,” Morka stated.
The ruling party accused Obi of trying to incite public discontent and undermining President Tinubu’s reform efforts, which it argued are laying the foundation for sustainable growth.
“President Tinubu deserves the support and patience of Nigerians to consolidate these reforms and deliver a vibrant, prosperous new Nigeria for all,” Morka concluded, urging citizens to remain optimistic about the country’s future.
