The Democratic Front, (TDF), has criticised Nigerian Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi for rejecting the World Bank’s economic growth outlook for Nigeria, accusing him of making claims without supporting evidence.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Wale Adedayo, on Thursday in Abuja, the group described Obi’s response to the World Bank’s projection as politically motivated and an attempt to gain public support.
TDF argued that Obi’s criticism failed to account for the increase in Nigerians benefiting from the Federal Government’s health, education, and social intervention programmes since President Bola Tinubu assumed office.
The group also faulted the former Anambra State governor for disputing the World Bank’s economic assessment without presenting alternative data or empirical evidence to support his position.
It said Obi’s purported banking experience should have informed his assessment of the World Bank’s decision to invest $500m in Nigeria, with the prospect of unlocking $5.79bn in financing.
According to TDF, the bank’s investment decision and its projection of 4.4 per cent economic growth for Nigeria in 2027 reflect confidence in the country’s investment prospects.
The group maintained that a development institution’s decision to commit funds to Nigeria contradicted Obi’s portrayal of the economy as declining.
TDF further rejected Obi’s claims about widespread hardship and poverty, citing the Federal Government’s release of N758bn to pay pension arrears as one measure expected to improve the welfare of affected pensioners.
It also listed the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, the Consumer Credit Corporation, SMEDAN loans and the Renewed Hope Housing programme among government interventions it said were helping to address poverty.
The group urged Nigerians to disregard Obi’s criticisms of the administration’s economic policies, alleging that his public statements aimed to undermine the government’s achievements.
TDF also questioned Obi’s credibility, citing his reported disagreement with the Anambra State government over public debt, his handling of N2.13bn in ecological funds allegedly received shortly before the end of his tenure as governor, and his comments during a BBC interview about the 2023 presidential election.
The group called on voters to reject Obi at the polls, arguing that his conduct and public statements raised questions about his suitability to lead the country.
