The Nigerian Presidency on Monday dismissed Peter Obi’s recent remarks on national economic policies, describing him as a “shallow” figure who lacks a deep understanding of governance and economic reform. This followed Obi’s appearance on Arise TV, where he admitted he supported some of President Bola Tinubu’s policies, including the fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification.
In a statement posted via X, Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, expressed disbelief that Obi—who ran as Labour Party’s presidential candidate—agreed with key reforms championed by the administration he once opposed.
Obi agrees with Tinubu’s reforms but says he would do it differently
During his interview, Peter Obi openly supported the controversial removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira, but claimed he would have implemented them more “organised” than what he described as the Federal Government’s “haphazard” execution.
Obi said, “There’s nothing wrong with the policies. I would have done the same, but I would have ensured the people didn’t suffer in the process.”
In response, Bwala accused Obi of merely playing with words and offering no real policy alternatives. “He was asked what the ‘organised manner’ is. He played with words, yet to arrive at agreeing with us,” Bwala wrote.
Bwala: Obi lacks economic depth, only chasing power
Bwala didn’t hold back in his assessment of Obi’s remarks. “He seems to have very shallow knowledge of economics and governance,” he said. He also questioned Obi’s motive for participating in politics, saying, “Anybody with a rational mind knows these guys are just looking to grab power but they don’t have any alternative agenda.”
The presidential adviser further mocked the tone of the interview, noting that Obi was not challenged strongly because the session was conducted by a member of the “Obidient” camp. He referenced popular expressions from past interviews to suggest the tone was mild: “That’s why you don’t hear ‘I put it to you’ and no barking like a rottweiler.”
Obi demands accountability, questions FG’s use of saved subsidy funds
Despite agreeing with the reforms in principle, Obi challenged the Tinubu-led government to explain how it has used the revenue saved from removing fuel subsidies. “Where is the money?” he asked, demanding transparency on how the funds have benefited Nigerians.
Obi said economic reforms should not be rushed without social protections in place. He stressed that Nigerians have suffered more from inflation and hardship since the policy changes were introduced without a solid implementation plan.
Presidency calls Peter Obi shallow over economic policies
The war of words between Peter Obi and the Presidency is far from over. With Bwala calling him “shallow” and accusing him of lacking ideas, and Obi demanding accountability over the economic hardship caused by rushed reforms, the stage is once again set for another political showdown. The Presidency says Obi has no plan; Obi says the Presidency has no conscience.
