Former presidential spokesman Garba Shehu has taken aim at former President Olusegun Obasanjo in a birthday tribute to Muhammadu Buhari, who turns 82 today.
In a message marking Buhari’s birthday, Shehu criticized Obasanjo for undermining his successors and praised Buhari for stepping back and allowing the new administration to find its footing.
Shehu’s remarks were aimed at contrasting the two former leaders’ post-presidential actions, particularly highlighting Buhari’s decision to stay away from Abuja after his tenure.
“On the other hand, since leaving office, first as a military leader and subsequently as an elected president after two terms, President Olusegun Obasanjo has called and written to every head of state after him to put them to shame or disgrace,” Shehu said. “In some cases, he has outrightly asked for their resignation or ouster in the next election.”
Shehu’s criticism of Obasanjo comes as part of his tribute to Buhari, who he described as a model of humility and selflessness. Buhari, who completed his two terms as president on May 29, 2023, has stayed largely out of the political spotlight.
Unlike Obasanjo, who has remained outspoken about his views on the leadership of Nigeria after his time in office, Buhari has kept a low profile since handing over power to President Bola Tinubu.
Since leaving office, Buhari has only visited the nation’s capital, Abuja, twice. His first visit was to officiate at the launch of Femi Adesina’s book, Working With Buhari. His second was when he was a guest of President Tinubu at a meeting of the Council of State.
Shehu highlighted this decision by Buhari as a demonstration of his commitment to giving the new administration space to function without unnecessary interference.
“The former president said to the hearing of everyone that once he handed over to his successor on May 29, 2023, he would be as far away from the nation’s capital, Abuja, so as not to cast a shadow over the new administration,” Shehu said. “This was to give them the space to effectively take off and stabilise without distractions. Being willing to renounce power is his extraordinarily admirable trait.”
Shehu’s tribute to Buhari was filled with praise for the former president’s discipline and focus on allowing the new government to thrive. In contrast, he criticized Obasanjo for what he called attempts to undermine every president who came after him.
Since leaving office, Obasanjo has remained a vocal critic of Nigerian leaders, frequently making public statements that challenge the current administration. Shehu’s comments suggest a sharp distinction between the two former leaders’ post-presidential approaches.
Buhari’s decision to stay away from Abuja has allowed President Tinubu and his government to navigate the challenges of the first year in office without the pressure of his presence. This, Shehu noted, was a key difference between Buhari’s legacy and that of Obasanjo, who has been involved in Nigerian politics long after his presidency.
Shehu also took the opportunity to share insights into Buhari’s post-presidential life. After stepping down from power, Buhari has embraced a simpler lifestyle, spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren, while also keeping up with current affairs through the news.
Buhari’s routine now includes meeting guests, enjoying his time on his farm, and pursuing his love for reading and watching television shows.
“Buhari now enjoys a simple routine, staying updated with the news, spending time with his grandchildren, meeting guests, and inspecting his farm,” Shehu remarked. “He has also indulged in his love for reading and watching TV shows.”
Shehu’s tribute to Buhari has struck a chord with those who admire the former president’s humility and restraint. His words stand in stark contrast to the actions of Obasanjo, who has been known for his continued involvement in Nigerian politics after his tenure.
Critics of Obasanjo have often accused him of trying to exert influence over the leaders who came after him, while Buhari has chosen a path of quiet reflection and support for the current administration.
Shehu’s comments reflect a larger debate about the roles former leaders should play in the political life of their countries. Should they retire from public life entirely, or should they continue to guide and challenge the government?