Dr. Doyin Okupe, the former Director-General of the Labour Party’s presidential campaign, claimed yesterday that Peter Obi, the LP’s candidate in the 2023 general elections, failed to present a solid policy document to support his consumption-to-production philosophy during the campaign.
Okupe made these statements while evaluating the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
He contended that Tinubu possesses a more robust policy framework compared to his primary opponents in the recent elections.
According to Okupe, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), based his strategies on theoretical loan agreements rather than practical solutions.
“Tinubu has presented a more comprehensive policy document than either of his two main rivals in the 2023 presidential race. While Atiku Abubakar is a seasoned and knowledgeable politician, his proposed framework is disconnected from the current realities facing Nigeria,” Okupe asserted.
He made clear that the previous administration under former President Muhammadu Buhari left the country in a bad financial situation, which led to international lenders refusing to extend loans to Nigeria.
“The foundation upon which Atiku built his proposals is fundamentally flawed and cannot succeed. As for Peter Obi, he did not provide any concrete plans for the Nigerian people,” he remarked.
“In the Labour Party, we lacked a policy document that could guide our vision. We merely advocated for a transition from consumption to production—appealing rhetoric without substantial policy backing or practical application.”
Okupe also commended Tinubu for addressing foreign exchange issues and preventing exploitation by individuals linked to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
He noted, “Just two months after assuming office, he established a committee to explore tax reforms as part of his agenda.”
“Tinubu has laid out a systematic, focused, and applicable agenda that has the potential to elevate Nigeria to new heights. Although I did not support him during the election and we are not allies, I must acknowledge that his reform agenda is the most credible.”
He concluded by stating that Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda is one that is currently addressing the pressing challenges faced by the nation.
