Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of governance in Nigeria, emphasizing that the nation might have fared better if Labour Party’s Peter Obi had won the 2023 presidential election.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Abaribe criticized what he described as nepotistic tendencies under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The senator, representing Abia South, highlighted Tinubu’s appointment of four ministers from Ogun State while many other states have just one minister as evidence of favoritism.
Abaribe argued that such practices alienate regions and deepen divisions in the country.
“If Peter Obi had won, you probably would have seen a better Nigeria than what we are seeing today,” he said.
“Number one, he would not be as nepotistic as this government. It’s not in him.”
Abaribe also reflected on the broader issue of regional marginalization, particularly concerning the South-East.
He noted that apart from former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, no administration has been equitable towards the region.
He urged the South-East to focus on self-development rather than waiting for fairness from the federal government.
Turning to the persistent unrest in the South-East, Abaribe welcomed the recent arrest of Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based separatist leader, describing it as a step toward restoring peace.
He condemned Ekpa’s violent rhetoric and its impact on the region, stating that his arrest could deter those fueling insecurity from abroad.
Additionally, Abaribe reiterated his call for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), arguing that it would help de-escalate violence in the region.
“Many of those perpetrating violence with Kanu’s name won’t have any reason to continue when Kanu is released,” he said.
Abaribe’s remarks come at a time of growing public discourse on inclusivity and fairness in governance.
While his criticisms of the Tinubu administration reflect broader concerns about national unity, his comments on Peter Obi underscore the growing relevance of alternative leadership styles in shaping Nigeria’s future.
The Presidency is yet to respond to Abaribe’s remarks, but the senator’s call for equitable governance and peaceful resolution in the South-East adds to ongoing debates about the country’s political direction.