Peter Obi and the Questions of Governance

At a recent event at Nexford University, Peter Obi made a bold claim, stating that there are more “Yahoo people” in government than outside it.

While this statement has sparked diverse reactions, it invites a closer look at Obi’s political record, particularly in light of some criticisms leveled against him.

Peter Obi has built his political brand around the promise of transformation—moving Nigeria from consumption to production. However, critics argue that this vision seems inconsistent with his personal practices. For instance, his Next Supermarket, a major business under his control, is largely stocked with imported goods, raising questions about his commitment to promoting local production.

Another point of contention is his record in education. As a two-term governor of Anambra State, there is little evidence to show he invested significantly in educational infrastructure. No new schools were built under his administration, despite his pledge to prioritize education.

Poverty reduction has also been a key part of his political rhetoric. Yet, under Obi’s tenure as governor, poverty in Anambra reportedly rose from 41.4% to 53.7%. Critics attribute this to his preference for saving state funds in banks, instead of investing in infrastructure and development projects that could have improved livelihoods.

On insecurity, Obi’s tenure saw incidents that remain controversial, including reports of extrajudicial killings linked to the Bakassi Boys and the discovery of bodies in the Ezu River. These events raised concerns about human rights abuses and the state’s ability to ensure security.

Health care is another area where questions have been raised. Doctors in Anambra reportedly went on a 13-month strike during his administration over unpaid salaries. Meanwhile, resources were directed toward purchasing SUVs for traditional rulers, which some view as misaligned with the pressing needs of the state.

While Peter Obi has gained significant popularity for his criticisms of the current administration and his promises of a better Nigeria, his critics believe his past record does not align with his lofty aspirations. They argue that transforming Nigeria into a model nation requires a track record of tangible achievements and consistency in governance, not just rhetoric.

For supporters of Peter Obi, these criticisms present an opportunity to address the gaps in his record and articulate a more grounded vision of how he plans to achieve the promises he has made. On the other hand, for his critics, they reinforce the need for voters to critically evaluate the credentials and past performance of those seeking leadership positions.