The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asserting that while the president excels at political strategy, his performance in actual governance is deeply disappointing. During an interview with Vanguard, Adebayo questioned the potential legacy Tinubu would leave behind, considering his low scorecard in leadership execution. “When it comes to the political game, President Tinubu deserves an A1,” Adebayo remarked. “Unfortunately, that distinction in political manipulation is matched by an F9 when it comes to governing the country.” He emphasized that although Tinubu clearly understands the dynamics of the political elite and how to manipulate them to his advantage, he lacks insight into the real needs and expectations of everyday Nigerians. Adebayo explained: “The president is well-versed in the motivations of politicians. He knows exactly how to manipulate the political class — recruiting them, disengaging them when necessary, retiring them, and even bringing them back onboard. He knows what drives them. “But that’s not the same as leading a nation. If President Tinubu fails to protect lives in volatile regions like Benue, Plateau, and other crisis-prone areas, then it’s a clear sign that his administration is failing the people.” The former presidential hopeful went further to accuse Tinubu of believing that ordinary citizens are disengaged from the political process, and that controlling government institutions and political elites is sufficient to maintain dominance. Adebayo issued a warning that the real political resistance will not emerge from politicians but from the Nigerian electorate, whose growing awareness could soon reshape the democratic landscape. He cautioned those who attempt to convert career politicians into meaningful opposition voices, pointing out that their motivations are often self-serving rather than ideological. “Many of these so-called opposition voices only raise their concerns after being excluded from political appointments or government boards,” he said. “It’s only when they are dropped from ministerial positions or denied lucrative board seats that they suddenly become vocal — hoping to stir noise and get reabsorbed into the system.”
A heated confrontation unfolded in the House of Representatives on Wednesday as lawmakers engaged in a fiery debate over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. The dispute, which took place shortly before the legislative session commenced, saw Marie Ebikake and Blessing Amadi exchanging verbal attacks over the controversial decision. Ebikake, representing Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency of Bayelsa, and Amadi, representing Port Harcourt Two Federal Constituency of Rivers State, engaged in a shouting match, pointing fingers at each other as tensions flared. The disagreement stemmed from President Tinubu’s announcement, which cited prolonged governance paralysis and unresolved political turmoil in the state. President Tinubu’s Declaration and Justification In a nationwide broadcast, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the instability in Rivers State. He emphasized that the crisis had stalled governance and deprived citizens of effective leadership. Tinubu justified his decision, stating: “I feel greatly disturbed by the political crisis in Rivers. The state has been at a standstill, and the people have been deprived of good governance. Fourteen months after Governor Fubara demolished the House of Assembly, it remains unbuilt. Many Nigerians have intervened, just as I did, but their efforts have been to no avail.” Citing the urgent need to restore order, the President announced the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, he appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as the interim administrator to oversee governance in Rivers State. Escalating Tensions in Rivers State The emergency declaration followed a series of alarming incidents, including an explosion at an oil facility in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. Earlier that day, a major fire outbreak was reported on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), heightening fears of escalating unrest in the state. Political Fallout and Backlash The emergency rule has sparked outrage among opposition figures, legal experts, and socio-political groups who argue that the decision is unconstitutional. Many critics assert that suspending an elected governor and lawmakers without due legislative process undermines Nigeria’s democracy. PANDEF (Pan Niger Delta Forum) has vowed to release an official stance after analyzing the situation. Similarly, political analysts believe this move may set a precedent for federal intervention in state affairs. External Insight and Analysis Experts warn that the crisis could impact the stability of the Niger Delta region, an area crucial to Nigeria’s oil production. Read more insights from The Guardian on the political dynamics unfolding in Rivers State. Conclusion As the political landscape in Rivers State remains volatile, stakeholders are calling for dialogue to resolve the crisis. The confrontation in the House of Representatives highlights the deep divisions surrounding the emergency declaration. With growing public outcry and potential legal battles ahead, all eyes remain on how the situation will unfold in the coming weeks. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Nigeria’s current leadership, claiming that the country has become a “failed state” due to the policies of his successors, former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu. He argued that their leadership has led Nigeria into a state of chaos, insecurity, and underdevelopment. Obasanjo made these remarks during a speech at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in the United States. The forum, which honors the late Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, hosted Obasanjo’s keynote address titled “Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria,” which was delivered via a pre-recorded video. Although Obasanjo did not directly name the two leaders, he referenced their popular nicknames: “Baba-go-slow” for Buhari and “Emilokan” for Tinubu, both of which have been used by their critics. According to Obasanjo, the situation in Nigeria is dire, marked by widespread corruption and immorality that has worsened the country’s instability, youth unrest, and underdevelopment. He emphasized that the “failed state” status of Nigeria is evident in the consequences of pervasive corruption, incompetence, and injustice. Obasanjo also criticized the Nigerian judiciary, claiming it has been compromised by politicians as part of a larger “state capture.” He argued that the judiciary, once respected internationally, has now become a tool for political manipulation. He pointed out that politicians often encourage their rivals to “go to court” after rigging elections, knowing that they can rely on a compromised judicial system. Obasanjo likened this situation to a cancerous growth that needs to be excised from Nigeria. In addition, Obasanjo spoke about how the political elite continues to exploit the nation’s resources for personal gain. He criticized the practice of acquiring national assets at below-market prices and allocating resources to local, regional, and international interests. He also mentioned the continued control of some states by former governors, such as one who, despite leaving office 25 years ago, still holds significant influence in his state. Obasanjo and Tinubu have a long history of political rivalry, which began during Obasanjo’s presidency when Tinubu was the governor of Lagos State. Their political animosity continued, with Obasanjo’s party failing to unseat Tinubu in the 2003 elections. The only time they aligned politically was in 2015 when they worked together to oppose the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan. Finally, Obasanjo condemned Nigerian politicians for exploiting the country’s widespread poverty and hunger, using “stomach infrastructure” tactics—distributing food and gifts to the poor in exchange for votes. He noted that such practices, funded by looted public funds, take advantage of vulnerable citizens rather than offering real solutions to their long-term problems. In summary, Obasanjo painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s political landscape, accusing its leaders of corruption, state capture, and neglect of the country’s development needs. READ ALSO:
