Jimoh Ibrahim Tells Obasanjo to Remain Silent, Defends Nigeria Against Failed State Claims

Senator Jimoh Ibrahim has publicly challenged former President Olusegun Obasanjo‘s recent assertions that Nigeria is a failing state, urging the elder statesman to refrain from using inflammatory language during what he describes as peacetime. Ibrahim’s comments come in response to Obasanjo’s keynote address at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum held at Yale University, where the former president criticized the current state of governance in Nigeria and called for urgent reforms.

Obasanjo’s Critique of Nigeria’s Leadership

In his address, Obasanjo painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, attributing the country’s challenges to widespread corruption, poor leadership, and a failure of accountability. He described the situation as chaotic, marked by insecurity, division, and underdevelopment. The former president used terms like “Baba-go-slow” and “Emilokan” to criticize President Bola Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that the current leadership is ineffective and unresponsive to the pressing needs of the nation.

Obasanjo emphasized that the pervasive corruption and immorality within Nigeria are leading the country deeper into chaos and conflict. He stated, “The failing state status of Nigeria is confirmed and glaringly indicated for all to see,” highlighting his belief that the political elite engage in “state capture,” manipulating national policies for personal gain rather than public welfare.

Ibrahim’s Response

In contrast to Obasanjo’s dire assessment, Senator Ibrahim argued that Nigeria is not a failed state and that the current government is functioning effectively. During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, he asserted that using warlike rhetoric during peacetime is detrimental to national morale. “I have a lot of respect for former President Olusegun Obasanjo,” he stated, “but the language of war on peacetime is a disaster.”

Ibrahim pointed out that developing countries often face challenges but should not be classified as failed states. He criticized Obasanjo for not acknowledging improvements in security and governance under President Tinubu’s administration. “If Nigeria at this time is a failed state, then what do we talk about Ghana?” he questioned, emphasizing that there are positive developments occurring within the country.

The Broader Debate

The exchange between Ibrahim and Obasanjo reflects a broader debate within Nigerian society regarding the state of governance and national identity. While Obasanjo calls for accountability and reform, Ibrahim defends the current administration’s efforts to stabilize the economy and improve public services.

As both figures represent different perspectives on Nigeria’s challenges, their discourse highlights the complexity of leadership in a nation grappling with historical issues of corruption and governance.

By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub

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