“Is Tinubu Even in Charge?”: Obi’s Startling Claim About the Presidency

The National Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said there are times he believes President Bola Tinubu is not fully in charge of his administration, urging the President to personally address Nigerians on issues affecting the country instead of allowing his aides to speak on his behalf.

A Blunt Assessment

ValidViewNetwork gathered that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said there are times he believes President Bola Tinubu is not fully in charge of his administration.

Obi made the remark in an interview with Arise TV on Thursday, September 10, 2026, while speaking on the state of the nation, insecurity, fuel prices, corruption, and his plans for the 2027 elections.

“Sometimes I believe Tinubu is not in charge. All these things that his people are talking, he should be the one talking. Nobody will talk for Peter Obi. I will talk to my people,” Obi said .

A Call for Presidential Accountability

Obi said the President should personally address Nigerians on issues affecting the country instead of allowing his aides and associates to speak on his behalf.

He also questioned the President’s frequent trips abroad, saying he should spend more time visiting parts of Nigeria affected by insecurity.

“He should spend three days in these states,” Obi said, referring to states such as Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau and Kano.

Security as the Priority

Obi identified insecurity as one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigerians, saying it had severely affected economic activities across the country.

“Security is the most important thing for Nigerians. It has made it impossible for manufacturers to move their goods. Insecurity has made it impossible for farmers to go to farm,” he said.

He said securing the country would be his administration’s immediate priority if elected.

“My first week, I will appoint capable security chiefs. Even if I am going to retain those that are there, they will know that a new Commander-in-Chief has arrived,” he said .

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Obi also expressed support for state police, saying he would not negotiate with kidnappers or pay ransom.

“I will do whatever it takes to secure the country. I believe in state police. I will not pay ransom,” he said .

A Promise of Change

Obi expressed confidence that significant changes would be visible within four years under his leadership.

“Four years, people will see the difference,” he said .He also denied any involvement in the killing of the Sardauna of Sokoto, saying he was too young when some of the events being referenced occurred.

“I was a baby when all these happened,” he said.

A Lesson for Nigeria

Obi’s remarks are a reminder that leadership requires visibility and accountability.

The same politicians who hide behind their aides will never allow their own children to be denied the truth. Their families are protected.

For Nigeria, the lesson is clear: a president who does not speak directly to the people cannot lead them effectively. The same leaders who avoid public scrutiny will never allow their own children to be held accountable.

Demand accountability. Demand visibility. And never forget that leadership is not about delegation — it is about responsibility.