Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has sharply criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) government, accusing it of plunging millions of Nigerians into poverty through misguided policies and ineffective governance. His remarks follow the release of a World Bank report on October 8, 2025, which paints a grim picture of Nigeria’s economic trajectory.
According to the report, 139 million Nigerians now live below the poverty line—an alarming rise from 87 million in 2023, the year President Bola Tinubu assumed office. Obi described the increase of over 50 million impoverished citizens in just two years as “heartbreaking” and a “reflection of how deeply our nation is failing its citizens.”
“What is even more troubling,” Obi stated, “is that this devastating revelation has not triggered a national emergency or serious dialogue on how to reverse the trend. Instead, the government responded with denial, ignoring the daily realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.”
The World Bank’s findings also challenge the effectiveness of the administration’s much-publicised reforms. Despite claims of progress, Nigeria’s poverty rate continues to climb, reinforcing its position as the most poverty-stricken nation globally.
Obi attributed the failure of these reforms to a lack of strategic planning and an absence of commitment to channeling resources into productive sectors. “Reforms must be deliberate and backed by people-focused policies,” he said, calling for a shift toward production-driven growth, support for small businesses and farmers, and increased investment in education and healthcare.
He emphasised that government spending must directly improve citizens’ lives, not merely serve political optics. “No nation can truly rise when the majority of its people are trapped in poverty,” Obi warned. “With the right leadership, we can make Nigeria work for every Nigerian.”
Obi’s comments have reignited debate over the direction of Nigeria’s economic policy and the urgency of addressing widespread hardship. As the country grapples with inflation, unemployment, and declining public services, calls for reform and accountability continue to mount.
