The All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded sharply to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms and his handling of the coup in Niger Republic.
Obasanjo had criticized Tinubu’s implementation of the removal of petroleum subsidies and the floating of the naira, noting that these measures, while necessary, were poorly executed and have led to increased inflation and higher food prices. Obasanjo made these remarks at a colloquium in Abuja, marking his first public criticism of Tinubu, whom he did not support in the presidential election.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Obasanjo’s Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, conveyed the former president’s views. Obasanjo argued that the government’s recent economic policies, although necessary, were implemented in a way that has impoverished Nigerians.
On Monday, APC National Director Bala Ibrahim dismissed Obasanjo’s criticism, suggesting that the former president might be showing signs of senility. Ibrahim accused Obasanjo of being a serial critic who has consistently attacked every administration since his unsuccessful attempt to secure a third term in office. He argued that Obasanjo sees himself as the only leader capable of governing Nigeria effectively and has unfairly targeted leaders such as Buhari, Jonathan, and now Tinubu.
Ibrahim defended Tinubu’s efforts to improve the economy, asserting that Obasanjo’s critiques are unfounded and reflect a pattern of behavior rather than objective analysis.
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