The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has called on the Labour Party, LP, and its 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, to refrain from politicised commentary and instead make constructive contributions to national discourse.
In a statement issued on Thursday, APC spokesperson, Mogaji Seye Oladejo criticised Obi’s recent remarks on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official engagements abroad, saying Nigerians “deserve sober reflection, not alarmist rhetoric.”
Oladejo accused the former Anambra State governor of repeatedly demonstrating “a limited understanding of governance and international diplomacy,” stressing that President Tinubu remains committed to the service of Nigerians “whether from Abuja, Yokohama, or anywhere else duty calls.”
According to him, the President’s current overseas engagements, including participation in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, TICAD9, are far from leisure trips, but rather strategic diplomatic missions aimed at repositioning Nigeria in the global economic and political arena.
“At a time when our country is seeking partnerships, investments, and solutions to shared global challenges, the presence of our President at multilateral forums is not just appropriate but crucial,” Oladejo said.
“Leadership in the 21st century requires collaboration, not isolation. Our economic recovery, climate resilience, energy access, and security cooperation depend on robust international alliances,” he said.
He argued that Obi, who had toured foreign capitals “in pursuit of sympathy for a failed electoral bid,” should understand that high-level diplomacy is a vital duty of leadership.
“While he questions the President’s travels, we question his disregard for the role of diplomacy in securing aid, enhancing security partnerships, and expanding trade,” he added.
Oladejo also highlighted what he described as key achievements of the Tinubu administration, including the stabilisation of the naira, moderation of inflation, and securing multi-billion-dollar investments in infrastructure, energy, and the digital economy. He also noted improved bilateral security cooperation, particularly in the fight against terrorism and organised crime.
“Rather than distorting facts, Mr Obi should acknowledge that Nigeria is not bleeding; Nigeria is rebuilding,” Oladejo stated.
“That work is being done both at home and abroad, with the President’s travel schedule reflecting a clear prioritisation of the nation’s long-term interests.”
Lagos APC urges Peter Obi, LP to shun alarmist rhetoric, support national progress
