IS AGBADO-MAN A CON-MAN?

 

As the 2023 Nigerian presidential election approached, numerous candidates made a plethora of promises to the electorate, although one particular candidate was noted for his tendency to undermine his opponents. Among the candidates, Peter Obi and the eventual victor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stood out prominently. The characteristics and backgrounds of both individuals became a focal point of national discourse. Critics labeled Peter Obi’s time as governor of Anambra State as unsuccessful, while Bola Ahmed Tinubu faced scrutiny due to allegations related to drug cases in the United States and his family's influence over Lagos State's leadership. 

Despite these controversies, Tinubu managed to secure significant backing from northern Nigeria and the southwest, largely attributed to party loyalty, ethnic affiliations (which also benefited Peter Obi), and the perception of him as a statesman. Throughout the campaign, he positioned himself as a candidate deeply concerned about the Nigerian economy, particularly the agricultural sector. However, without implementing meaningful economic reforms, he was ultimately declared the election winner, a result that many citizens still regard with skepticism. His authoritative demeanor during the campaign was not surprising to many, especially during his remarks in Ogun State, where he claimed that his influence was pivotal in the election of the current governor and the installation of the then-president. 

On May 29, 2023, the day of the presidential inauguration, in what he deemed a wise decision based on his extensive experience, he allowed the Nigerian naira to float and eliminated fuel subsidies without adequate preparations. This move has been widely criticized as a significant economic misstep for someone who professes to possess the capability to revitalize the nation. The repercussions were so severe that those who traveled to Abuja to celebrate his inauguration found themselves reaching out to family members for financial support due to skyrocketing transportation costs. This decision has significantly impacted his presidency, leading to economic difficulties and a famine reminiscent of the era of the late General Sanni Abacha, a figure his campaign portrayed him as opposing, even to the point of risking his life. Despite his assertions of competence and his declarations such as "EMILOKAN" (IT'S MY TURN) and "EMI MOLE SE" (I'M THE ONE THAT CAN DO IT), his actions suggest a lack of genuine........

                       QUOTE TO NOTE

HE WHO IS INTERESTED IN LEADERSHIP SHOULD HAVE

 DEVELOPED A MATURE SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY

- kolaowle David

 

.......... interest in improving the nation's welfare. Nigeria already possesses a considerable number of presidential jets, which has sparked discussions about reducing government expenditures. The newly elected president, who professed to possess the intellect necessary for national improvement, allocated funds to acquire a new yacht for an astonishing 5.5 billion naira. Shortly thereafter, he purchased another presidential jet for 150 billion naira. In a nation where many citizens struggle to afford basic sustenance, even staple crops like cassava and corn have become increasingly unaffordable. Presently, Nigeria appears to lack a middle class, with citizens divided starkly into the wealthy and the impoverished, a situation attributed to the president's agricultural and economic policies. Furthermore, he faces allegations of owing an oil company while continuing to pay himself the purportedly eliminated gasoline subsidy (the federal government announced last August that subsidies are still being disbursed). There are also claims of substantial contracts awarded to a company believed to be under his control. Regardless of political affiliations, the unvarnished reality is that the president's actions have undermined any perception of his capability to lead the country effectively. Ultimately, it appears he has prioritized the welfare of his family and his hold on power over the nation's needs. Until he demonstrates a change in approach, many will continue to view him as a deceiver.