In a provocative appraisal of Nigeria’s political history, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared the administration of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, as the worst seen since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance. This assertion came as a centerpiece in his newly released book titled “Nigeria: Past and Future,” unveiled to mark his 88th birthday.
In the book, Obasanjo expresses deep concern over the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that it might continue the trend of misgovernance and corruption that characterized Buhari’s tenure. He highlights the controversial N15.6 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project as a prime example of what he perceives as wasteful spending and corruption, criticizing Tinubu’s government for allocating N21 billion for a new official residence for Vice President Kashim Shettima during a time of economic difficulties.
Obasanjo stated, “Typical examples of waste, corruption, and misplaced priority are evident in the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the new Vice-President’s official residence.” He further accused Buhari’s administration, particularly Attorney General Abubakar Malami, of fostering an environment where corruption thrived.
In his critique, Obasanjo asserts that the current government’s approach reflects a broader trend of transactional politics, where public funds are viewed as entitlements rather than resources for national development. He voiced his concerns that, unless changed, this mindset could lead to worse outcomes than those experienced under Buhari.
The criticisms have not gone unnoticed by the current administration. The presidency promptly defended the Lagos-Calabar project as a visionary endeavor with significant economic promise, arguing its potential to foster development in Nigeria. Officials, including the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, countered Obasanjo’s claims by remarking on his own administration’s failures, pointing to unfinished infrastructure projects during his time in office.
Former politicians and pundits have since engaged in heated discussions regarding the veracity of Obasanjo’s claims and the track record of both his and Buhari’s governments. As the ongoing discourse unfolds, it highlights the persistent issues of governance, accountability, and the haunting specter of corruption that have traversed Nigerian administrations.
With accusations flying and defenses being mounted, the political landscape remains charged as Nigerians grapple with the implications of Obasanjo’s statements, which reflect broader anxieties about the direction of their national leadership and the effectiveness of governance in tackling corruption and fostering growth.
