Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, claiming that many Nigerians who once owned thriving businesses have been forced into petty trading, including selling kuli-kuli, as a result of worsening economic hardship.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has accused the Tinubu administration of presiding over a worsening economic situation, alleging that many Nigerians who operated successful businesses before President Bola Tinubu assumed office have lost their livelihoods and are now struggling to survive.
Obi made the remarks during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo while responding to questions about the state of the economy and the strength of his political support ahead of the 2027 election.
According to Obi, Nigerians who had confidence in the current administration have become disillusioned after witnessing rising hardship and business closures.
He argued that many entrepreneurs who previously ran established businesses have been pushed into low-income ventures, rhetorically asking whether those who once owned businesses had now become kuli-kuli sellers.
Obi maintained that economic conditions have deteriorated significantly under the current administration, insisting that the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda has failed to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
The former governor also claimed that support for his political movement has continued to grow because more Nigerians are assessing the government’s performance based on their daily experiences.
His latest criticism adds to a series of recent comments in which he has challenged the Federal Government over issues including inflation, poverty, insecurity and unemployment.
Government officials have consistently defended the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, arguing that current policies are necessary to stabilise the economy and deliver long-term growth despite short-term hardships.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued a fresh response specifically to Obi’s latest comments about business owners and economic hardship.
However, government officials have repeatedly maintained that ongoing reforms are designed to reposition the Nigerian economy and improve living standards over time.
Obi’s latest remarks further highlight the sharp disagreements between the opposition and the Federal Government over the state of Nigeria’s economy. With political activities ahead of the 2027 general election gathering momentum, debates over economic performance, poverty and job creation are expected to remain central issues in the country’s political discourse.