The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has strongly criticized Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, over his recent remarks concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official international trips, describing his comments as a clear display of “persistent misunderstanding of governance and global diplomacy.”
In a statement issued in Ogba, Lagos, on Thursday by the party’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the APC scolded Obi for what it described as his emotionally charged criticism of the president’s travel itinerary, insisting that leadership in the 21st century requires strategy—not sentiment.
“Obi’s comments, couched in emotional rhetoric, demonstrate a persistent misunderstanding of governance and global diplomacy,” the party said. “President Tinubu’s current travel itinerary is not a leisure tour, as Mr. Obi has insinuated, but part of a strategic international engagement to reposition Nigeria on the global economic and diplomatic stage.”
The APC maintained that Tinubu’s participation in global forums such as the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) reflects Nigeria’s commitment to engaging the world in pursuit of investment, partnerships, and solutions to shared challenges.
“At a time when our nation is seeking partnerships, investments and solutions to shared global challenges, the presence of our President at multilateral forums like TICAD9 is not only appropriate — it is essential,” the statement added.
Lagos APC further pointed out that Obi, who embarked on international tours following the 2023 elections, should understand that diplomacy is a core responsibility of leadership, not an option.
“Mr. Obi, who has himself toured foreign capitals in search of sympathy for a rejected electoral bid, should understand that diplomacy is not optional — it is a duty of leadership,” the party noted. “While he asks why the President visits foreign countries, we ask why he consistently disregards the significance of high-level diplomacy in attracting aid, forging security partnerships and expanding trade.”
The party emphasized that President Tinubu’s engagements abroad are already yielding results in areas such as economic stability, infrastructure development, and improved security cooperation.
“Rather than distort facts, Mr. Obi should acknowledge the visible progress being made: Stabilisation of the naira and moderation of inflation. Attracting multi-billion-dollar commitments in infrastructure, energy and digital economy. Improved bilateral security cooperation, especially in the fight against terrorism and organised crime.”
Reiterating its stance, the APC declared that Nigeria is on a path of rebuilding, not decline, and urged Obi to offer constructive input rather than “alarmist rhetoric.”
“Let it be clear: Nigeria is not bleeding — Nigeria is rebuilding, and that work is being done at home and abroad. The President’s travel schedule reflects a strategic prioritisation of Nigeria’s long-term interests, not neglect.”
The party concluded by calling on the Labour Party and its flag bearer to rise above political grandstanding and contribute meaningfully to the national dialogue.
“Finally, Lagos APC urges Mr. Obi and the Labour Party to rise above politicised commentary and contribute to national discourse. Nigerians deserve sober reflection, not alarmist rhetoric. President Tinubu remains fully committed to the service of the Nigerian people, whether from Abuja, Yokohama, or anywhere his duty calls.”
