Peter Obi In Trouble For Visiting Ex-Military Dictator IBB
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has criticised Labour Party’s Peter Obi over his recent visit to former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida.
Sowore, known for his outspoken views, described the visit as contradictory to Obi’s claims of being committed to saving Nigeria.
In a pointed statement on his X handle on Thursday, Sowore questioned Obi’s credibility in positioning himself as a saviour of Nigeria while associating with Babangida, whom he referred to as an “ex-Nigerian ruiner.”
“@peterobi how on earth could someone be returning from paying homage to Ex- Nigerian-ruiner, Ibrahim Babangida and then give his life to save Nigeria? Jokers!” Sowore said.
Babangida, Nigeria’s military ruler from 1985 to 1993, has been a polarising figure in the country’s political history.
Babangida’s time in office was tumultuous, marked by economic reforms that didn’t quite pan out and numerous human rights abuses.
One of the most significant controversies during his tenure was the annulment of the 1993 presidential election, which was widely regarded as free and fair. This move was seen as a major setback for Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Babangida’s regime was also criticised for its handling of corruption, governance, and transparency. Despite initial promises to return the country to civilian rule, his administration was marred by authoritarian tendencies and a lack of accountability. The annulment of the 1993 election remains a particularly sore spot in Nigerian history, symbolising the country’s struggles with democratic consolidation and the rule of law.
Obi, the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election, has been a vocal advocate for good governance and youth engagement in Nigerian politics.
However, Sowore sees his outreach to Babangida as inconsistent with his reformist message.
Obi visited Minna, the capital of Niger State, on Thursday for meetings with two leaders, reaffirming his dedication to nation-building and unity.
In a series of tweets on his X account, Obi shared that he began his visit by meeting with former military ruler Babangida at his residence.
Describing Babangida as a “father figure, elder statesman, and leader,” Obi said the meeting provided an opportunity to wish the former leader a happy New Year and discuss important national matters.
“General Babangida’s wisdom and perspectives remain very important. I always deeply appreciate the chance to visit him and listen to his invaluable advice and words of wisdom,” Obi said.
Obi said he also visited erstwhile Niger State governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, to sympathise with him on the recent deaths of his mother and younger sister.
|@peterobi how on earth could someone be returning from paying homage to Ex- Nigerian-ruiner, Ibrahim Babangida and then give his life to save Nigeria? Jokers
