Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who commemorated his 88th birthday in March with the release of two books, also denounced former President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime as the “worst civil administration” in Nigeria’s history.
In a response issued on Tuesday, Lagos APC Spokesman Mogaji Seye Oladejo contended that Obasanjo lacked the moral credibility to deem any government incompetent, highlighting the notable flaws that marred his own presidency, as “political arrogance” and “squandered opportunities”.
Oladejo noted that during Obasanjo’s tenure, billions were allocated to the power sector, resulting in minimal progress; the economy incurred additional debt despite claims of debt forgiveness; the contentious third-term agenda brought the country to the brink of a constitutional crisis; and corruption thrived under his leadership.
Moreover, Oladejo contended that Tinubu implemented courageous reforms that his predecessors did not dare to attempt, including the abolition of fuel subsidies, a sweeping reform of the foreign exchange system, and initiatives aimed at tackling deeply ingrained inefficiencies.
“Obasanjo’s bitterness is well-known. He cannot control this government, and he resents that Nigeria has moved on from his brand of egocentric, do-or-die politics. His habit of attacking sitting presidents when he no longer holds relevance has become predictable and pathetic,” Oladejo said.
Oladejo exhorted the former president to show restraint and display leadership by offering constructive advice rather than seeking attention.
“We strongly advise the former president to show some decorum, especially at his age. Elders are expected to advise, not agitate. If he has nothing constructive to say, silence would serve him—and the country—far better than these attention-seeking outbursts.
“President Tinubu is not in a race with Obasanjo or anyone else. He is focused on the future. Nigeria is on a path of reform, recovery, and renewal—and no amount of potshots from yesterday’s bitter men will derail that journey,” he added.
