In the intricate web of Nigerian politics, where alliances and enmities often shape the course of the nation’s future, the conspicuous absence of former President Olusegun Obasanjo from critical national events has sparked curiosity and concern.
Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, Obasanjo seems to have distanced himself from the new administration, culminating in his refusal to attend the recent Council of State meeting at the Presidential Villa.
While other former heads of state, including those who could not attend physically, made their presence felt either in person or virtually, Obasanjo’s absence, alongside that of the ailing General Ibrahim Babangida, has raised questions about the underlying dynamics at play.
The Council of State is not just any ordinary meeting; it is a constitutional body that provides advice to the executive on crucial matters affecting the nation.
Comprising the sitting president, vice president, former presidents, and other key figures, the Council serves as a melting pot of wisdom, experience, and statesmanship. It is a platform where past and present leaders converge to deliberate on the nation’s direction, offering guidance that stems from years of governance and public service.
While it is not unprecedented for former presidents to skip these meetings, Obasanjo’s absence carries a different weight, given his history with Tinubu and the current state of the nation.
The strained relationship between Obasanjo and Tinubu is well-documented, dating back to their time as president and governor, respectively. During Obasanjo’s presidency, Tinubu, then the governor of Lagos State, often found himself at odds with the federal government.
The tension between the two leaders was palpable, with Obasanjo’s administration frequently clashing with Tinubu’s policies in Lagos. This animosity extended beyond their official capacities, becoming a personal rivalry that has lingered for years.
In the run-up to the 2023 general elections, Obasanjo’s support for Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, further deepened the rift. By endorsing Obi, Obasanjo made it clear that he did not see Tinubu as the right choice to lead Nigeria.
This endorsement was not just a political statement; it was a direct challenge to Tinubu’s ambitions and a reflection of Obasanjo’s lack of confidence in his leadership abilities. Obasanjo also doubled down on this stance in a recent interview where he reiterated that Obi was the better candidate.
Obasanjo’s recent comments about Nigeria’s leadership have only added fuel to the fire. In a scathing critique, he suggested that the country’s leaders, presumably including Tinubu, deserved to be in jail for their actions.
While the former president is known for his candidness, these comments underscore the depth of his dissatisfaction with the direction in which the country is headed under Tinubu’s leadership.
However, in a surprising twist, Obasanjo did make a visit to the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, shortly after her husband’s inauguration.
This gesture, though seemingly cordial, did little to dispel the notion of a rift between the two leaders. Instead, it added an element of intrigue to their relationship, leaving many to wonder whether it was a genuine attempt at reconciliation or merely a diplomatic formality.
Despite their differences, Obasanjo and other former presidents cannot afford to stay away from the Council of State meetings unless they have a compelling reason to do so.
Nigeria is currently facing unprecedented challenges, ranging from economic instability to security threats that have left the nation vulnerable. In such trying times, the input of seasoned leaders like Obasanjo is not just desirable; it is essential.
The wisdom and experience that former presidents bring to the table are invaluable in navigating the complex issues that Nigeria faces today. Their perspectives, shaped by years of governance, can provide the sitting president with insights that are not easily accessible.
Moreover, their presence at such meetings sends a strong message of unity and continuity in leadership, reassuring the nation that, despite political differences, the country’s leadership is united in its commitment to addressing the challenges at hand.
Obasanjo, in particular, has a wealth of experience that could benefit the current administration. Having served as both a military and civilian leader, he has a unique understanding of the intricacies of governance and the importance of national unity.
His absence from the Council of State meetings, therefore, is not just a personal choice but a significant loss to the nation.
As Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with mounting pressure from various quarters, it is imperative that all hands be on deck. The challenges facing the nation require a collective effort, one that transcends personal animosities and political differences.
Obasanjo, with his vast experience and statesmanship, has a crucial role to play in this collective effort. His voice, though often critical, is one that carries weight and should be heard in the corridors of power.
