Akume Questions Peter Obi’s Capability to “Rescue Nigeria,” Says He Failed to Rescue Anambra

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has taken a swipe at former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, questioning his ability to “rescue Nigeria” as he often claims in his political campaigns.

Speaking in Abuja, Akume dismissed Obi’s repeated rhetoric of “rescuing Nigeria,” arguing that the former governor failed to deliver significantly in his home state when he had the chance. “All these people who are hanging around talking about coming in to rescue Nigeria, which Nigeria? If Peter Obi couldn’t rescue Anambra, he is talking about rescuing the 36 states and Abuja,” the SGF said.

Akume’s comment, which has since stirred reactions across the political landscape, was seen by many as a direct attack on Obi’s leadership credentials and political ambitions.

The SGF, a key figure in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, appeared to use the remark to cast doubt on the opposition’s readiness to govern the country, insisting that governance requires more than campaign slogans.

The former governor of Benue State, who now serves as the country’s top bureaucrat, suggested that Obi’s record in Anambra does not align with his national reformist image.

While Akume did not elaborate on specific shortcomings, his comments reignited public debate about Obi’s performance between 2006 and 2014, a period during which the Labour Party leader has been praised by supporters for prudent fiscal management and criticized by opponents for limited infrastructure growth.

Political observers interpret Akume’s statement as part of the ruling party’s ongoing effort to challenge the credibility of opposition figures ahead of future elections. Supporters of Peter Obi, however, have swiftly countered the SGF’s remarks, arguing that Obi left Anambra in better financial shape than he met it, with improved education and health indicators and a reputation for transparency.

The exchange underscores the deepening rivalry between the Tinubu-led government and opposition leaders, particularly as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the next election cycle. Analysts note that Akume’s comments reflect the ruling party’s strategy to question the opposition’s record while defending the administration’s own policies and performance.

As of press time, Peter Obi has not issued an official response to Akume’s remarks, but sources within the Labour Party say the former governor is likely to address the issue in an upcoming media interaction.

The development has further fueled public discourse on leadership credibility, governance standards, and the politics of performance in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.