The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, accusing him of turning the recent United States designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” (CPC) into what it described as political theatre.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 4, by its spokesperson, Hon. Seye Oladejo, the party said Obi’s reaction to the U.S. decision was belated, insincere, and lacking the patriotism expected of a former presidential aspirant.
“True to form, Obi once again attempted to turn a sensitive national issue into political theatre rather than demonstrate statesmanship,” Oladejo stated.
‘Obi’s Silence Was Deafening’ — APC
The APC faulted Obi for not immediately addressing the U.S. government’s designation, describing his initial silence as “deafening” for someone who frequently comments on national affairs.
“It uncharacteristically took him some time to respond. For a man always seeking microphones and hashtags, his sudden silence was deafening, until well-meaning Nigerians began to publicly question it,” the statement said.
Oladejo further argued that Obi’s eventual remarks lacked both urgency and sincerity, asserting that “true leadership is proactive, not reactive.”
“A man who claims to desire national leadership should not require public reminders to speak when his nation’s image is at stake. Leadership is proactive, not reactive — and certainly not driven by online agitation,” he added.
‘Sour Politics Born from Electoral Heartbreak’
The Lagos APC accused Obi of finding political satisfaction in Nigeria’s challenges, describing his posture as “sour politics born from electoral heartbreak.”
“Real leaders defend their country in difficult moments. Statesmen balance criticism with dignity and national pride. But Peter Obi appears content only when Nigeria is under pressure, believing every challenge for the nation is an opportunity for his political resurrection,” the statement read.
Tinubu’s Administration ‘Confronting Insecurity with Strategy’
Defending President Bola Tinubu’s handling of national security, the party claimed that the administration had inherited complex security problems but was now addressing them “with courage and strategy.”
According to Oladejo, government interventions include:
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Strengthening military command and intelligence structures;
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Deployment of modern technology and platforms;
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Renewed regional and global security collaboration; and
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Tackling the economic roots of insecurity through reforms.
“While serious leaders are working, Obi and his online choir are rehearsing 2023 grievances and clinging to foreign commentary for political oxygen,” Oladejo said.
‘Obi Must Choose Between Nigeria and Desperation’
The Lagos APC concluded by urging the Labour Party leader to demonstrate greater national loyalty, warning that “no serious nation is built on the politics of sulking and sensationalism.”
“Peter Obi must choose between Nigeria and his ever-shrinking echo chamber of bitterness and resentment. His recent behaviour confirms why Nigerians rejected him — leadership demands maturity, not melodrama and delayed outrage,” the statement read.
The party ended on an optimistic note, reaffirming confidence in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and assuring citizens that the government remained focused on restoring stability and progress.
“Nigeria will not bow to those rooting for its challenges to worsen. Nigeria will succeed, despite those praying for its failure and reacting only when forced by public pressure,” the Lagos APC declared.
