Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sharply criticised former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over comments he made about Nigeria during a recent appearance at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.
He slammed the former governor for ‘increasing poverty in Nigeria, stating that poverty rose to about 60% in Anambra State under Obi, whom he also said failed to build any school or hospital in his two four-year tenure as governor.
“Under Peter Obi, poverty in Anambra increased,” Sanwo-Olu said. “In 2007, when Obi took office, the poverty rate was 41.4%. By 2009, it had surged to 53.7%. However, five years after Obi left office, his successor, Willie Obiano, reduced the poverty rate from nearly 60% to 14.8%.”
“Mr. Obi contributed to the rise in poverty in Anambra, while Governor Tinubu helped lift millions out of poverty. So, who has the standing to criticise?” Sanwo-Olu asked.
Sanwo-Olu accused Obi of undermining Nigeria’s image on the global stage, urging prominent Nigerians abroad to prioritise national pride and promote the country’s strengths.
In a statement released on Sunday, Sanwo-Olu expressed disappointment at Obi’s remarks, which he deemed “disparaging” not only to the current Nigerian government but to the nation as a whole. The governor stressed that it is the responsibility of Nigerians, especially those in positions of influence, to showcase the country in a positive light rather than tarnish its reputation.
“He made unflattering remarks about both the government and Nigeria itself,” Sanwo-Olu said. “When Nigerians travel abroad, they should act as ambassadors for the country. This is not about supporting any particular government—it’s about a duty to project Nigeria positively on the global stage.”
Sanwo-Olu’s comments were a direct response to Obi’s criticism of Nigeria’s economic policies, particularly claims that they have exacerbated poverty. While Obi’s position has drawn attention, Sanwo-Olu defended President Bola Tinubu’s economic approach, highlighting his successful track record in poverty reduction during his tenure as Governor of Lagos between 1999 and 2007.
The Lagos Governor also questioned Obi’s credibility in making such criticisms, pointing out that during Obi’s eight years as Anambra Governor, he failed to implement critical development projects that could have alleviated poverty in the state.
“It’s ironic that Mr. Obi, who didn’t build a single school or hospital during his time as governor, is now criticising a government that is actively addressing these issues,” Sanwo-Olu remarked.
Sanwo-Olu further lauded President Tinubu for his leadership both in Lagos and on the national stage, noting that his administration has made significant strides in education and poverty alleviation. “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, over 200 schools have been built, and more than 200,000 Nigerian undergraduates have benefited from student loans,” the governor highlighted.
