Presidency rejects Obi's Tinubu resignation demand, cites fixed-term rule
On June 23, 2026, Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, criticised Peter Obi's recent call for the President to resign, saying it misunderstands Nigeria's constitutional presidential system. Dare stated that Nigeria operates a fixed-term presidency where leaders leave office only through elections, constitutional processes, incapacity or mandate expiration—not through votes of confidence as in parliamentary systems. He quoted: 'Nigeria is a constitutional presidential democracy. Presidents are elected for fixed terms and leave office through elections, constitutional processes, incapacity or the expiration of their mandate.' Obi had urged Tinubu to step down, citing worsening economic hardship, insecurity and unfulfilled campaign promises. Dare countered that Obi's demand shows a lack of respect for constitutional foundations, asking why Nigerians should trust someone seeking the presidency who disregards those rules. He also accused Obi of focusing solely on criticism while ignoring claimed government progress, insisting that true national leadership acknowledges challenges and offers practical alternatives. Dare urged that political disagreements be pursued within democratic and constitutional processes, emphasizing maturity, balance and adherence to constitutional principles. Given this exchange, should opposition leaders prioritise presenting solutions over calling for resignation when citizens face hardship, or is demanding accountability justified when promises appear unmet?