APC slams Obasanjo over remarks on Tinubu administration’s reforms

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rebuked former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms and handling of the coup d’état in Niger Republic.

Obasanjo criticized Tinubu’s removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, policies that have caused inflation and increased food prices, affecting the masses. He acknowledged that while these policies were necessary, their implementation was flawed. Obasanjo’s remarks were made during a colloquium in Abuja on navigating Nigeria’s economic crisis and insecurity.

Obasanjo stated, “Today, the government has taken three decisions, two of which are necessary but wrongly implemented and have led to the impoverishment of the economy and of Nigerians. These are the removal of subsidy, closing the gap between the black market and official rates of exchange, and dealing with a military coup in Niger Republic.”

This was the first instance of Obasanjo openly criticizing Tinubu, whom he did not support in the presidential election.

In response, APC National Director Bala Ibrahim dismissed Obasanjo’s comments, suggesting that the former president might be showing signs of senility. Ibrahim told The PUNCH, “As a Nigerian and someone who respects Obasanjo, I think senility is beginning to come in. Obasanjo is beginning to manifest the symptoms.”

READ ALSO: Obasanjo knocks Tinubu over fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification

Ibrahim further accused Obasanjo of being a habitual critic since his failed attempt to secure a third term in office, attacking successive administrations including those of Presidents Buhari and Jonathan. “Obasanjo has been consistent in his criticisms of people in leadership positions apart from himself. So, this is not an isolated case. President Bola Tinubu is not the first to be attacked by Obasanjo.”

Ibrahim also criticized Obasanjo’s own tenure, claiming that he mismanaged the Nigerian economy. “He himself did not fare better when he was the leader. In fact, Obasanjo superintended the balkanization of the Nigerian economy,” he added.

The APC official defended Tinubu’s efforts to improve the economy, arguing that Obasanjo’s consistent attacks on leaders reveal a belief that only he understands what is best for Nigeria. “Nobody has monopoly on knowledge or style of leadership,” Ibrahim concluded, suggesting that Obasanjo has erred in his judgment of Tinubu’s policies.