Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has criticised Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, accusing him of lacking the moral authority to comment on Nigeria’s poverty situation.

In a statement personally signed and titled “Factually Addressing Mr Peter Obi’s Criticism of Nigeria at Johns Hopkins University”, Sanwo-Olu argued that Obi contributed to the poverty he now decries, citing alleged failures during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State.

At a recent event at Johns Hopkins University, Obi compared Nigeria’s poverty trajectory with that of China and Vietnam, questioning the quality of political leadership in Nigeria. He criticised the nation’s leaders for failing to invest adequately in education, healthcare, and poverty reduction.

Responding, Sanwo-Olu accused Obi of “de-marketing” Nigeria abroad and failing to project the country positively.

“Prominent Nigerians abroad owe a duty to promote Nigeria, irrespective of their political leanings. True patriotism involves uplifting the country’s image, not denigrating it,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu argued that Obi’s record does not support his criticisms, pointing out that under Obi’s administration, the poverty rate in Anambra State rose from 41.4 per cent in 2007 to 53.7 per cent two years later. He added that Obi’s successor, Willie Obiano, subsequently reduced poverty in the state to 14.8 per cent.

“It is ironic that someone who failed to build a single standalone school or hospital as governor now lectures others on poverty eradication,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

Highlighting President Tinubu’s achievements, he noted that Tinubu reduced poverty in Lagos by 46 per cent during his tenure and, as President, has provided significant investments in education and credit facilities for small businesses and students.

“The best predictor of the future is the past. President Tinubu’s track record shows he is capable of reducing poverty nationwide,” Sanwo-Olu added.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to consider the credibility of critics before accepting their claims.