Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as an inadequate and insensitive response to recent attacks in Plateau State.

In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, Obi said effective leadership during periods of tragedy must extend beyond formal appearances, emphasising the need for empathy and direct engagement with affected communities.

“True leadership requires presence, empathy, compassion, and a willingness to meet people where their pain truly lies,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor referenced the President’s previous visit to Benue State in June 2025, alleging that Tinubu did not visit impacted communities but remained at the Government House. He added that a similar approach was observed in Jos, the Plateau State capital, where engagement reportedly ended at the airport.

“For citizens who have just lost loved ones, homes, and their sense of safety, being addressed from an airport tarmac is profoundly inadequate,” Obi stated.

He further stressed that beyond public statements, the government must take urgent and concrete steps to address insecurity, insisting that affected areas such as Plateau require decisive action and reassurance from leadership.

Obi’s remarks have since generated reactions from Nigerians on social media, with several users expressing concern over what they perceive as a disconnect between political leaders and citizens experiencing violence.

Some commentators argued that insecurity in the country has been politicised, while others called for greater empathy and physical presence from leaders during times of crisis. Several respondents also criticised what they described as remote or symbolic engagements, insisting that affected communities deserve direct interaction and support from those in authority.