Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has branded Nigeria a “disgraced” nation under President Bola Tinubu, citing worsening insecurity and intensifying divisions within opposition parties.

In a statement released on Wednesday via his X account, Obi expressed alarm over the country’s deteriorating security situation, pointing to the attack on a girls’ school in Kebbi, the killing of a senior military officer, and the abduction and murder of Christians in Kwara State. He argued that these incidents underscore the government’s failure to protect citizens or uphold democratic standards.

Obi referenced recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who described Nigeria as “disgraced.” While many Nigerians condemned the comment, Obi questioned how it could be dismissed given that, within a single week, 25 people were kidnapped and a general with other officers was killed.

“Today, we witness yet another terror attack in Kwara. Instead of unity in this critical moment, the nation is distracted by internal wrangling and party squabbles,” he said.

The former Anambra governor accused the Tinubu administration of aggravating internal crises within key opposition parties, including the PDP, Labour Party, and SDP, rather than consolidating democratic institutions.

He contrasted this with the approach of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who, during a party dispute, directed then-INEC chairman Maurice Iwu to ensure stability across all political parties, stressing that democracy required every party to operate within the law.

“What we see today is the opposite,” Obi remarked. “The government seems more intent on weakening parties than strengthening democracy, seeking to fragment opposition groups instead of respecting their role.”

He added that in functioning democracies, opposition is respected, elections reflect the people’s will, and governance is inclusive, fostering peace and prosperity.