By Abayomi Odunowo.
In a world increasingly dank with political hyperbole, recent remarks attributed to former President Olusegun Obasanjo regarding our current leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have sparked an alarm that is both surprising and misguided. Obasanjo’s assertion that Tinubu cannot be defeated in the forthcoming 2027 presidential election without “war,” coupled with an incendiary comparison to Adolf Hitler, represents a departure from responsible political discourse. It is with astonishment that the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG) responds not merely to what has been said, but to the inherent disservice such statements render to our democracy and national unity.
First and foremost, we must address the pernicious implications of characterizing the quest for political change in Nigeria through the lens of warfare. To suggest that electoral outcomes are predicated on conflict rather than the wisdom of the electorate is an affront to our democratic maturity. A former Head of State ought to be a steward of our constitutional principles, not a purveyor of defeatism. Much like the democratic processes that underpin our nation, leadership choices should emerge through dialogue, rigorous discourse, and electoral competition. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not thrust into power by force or coercion; his ascent was the result of a legitimate election undertaken by a diverse and engaged citizenry. To insinuate otherwise is to undermine the very fabric of our democratic process.
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is undergoing a profound transformation. His administration is courageous in undertaking essential reforms, ranging from the removal of the long-abused fuel subsidy to the restructuring of our security apparatus. The vision driving these changes is untethered from historical lamentations and firmly aimed at revitalizing a faltering nation. The accusations levied by Obasanjo do not merely misrepresent the facts; they undermine the efforts of a leader striving against the odds to refocus a wayward economy and restore faith in our democratic institutions. Furthermore, the tenure of Tinubu is framed by resilience an urgent reorientation of how Nigeria engages with the world following years of mismanagement by previous leaders.
Equally egregious is Obasanjo’s invocation of Adolf Hitler in discussing President Tinubu. Histories are written for a reason, and to equate a democratically elected leader with a tyrant responsible for the genocide of millions is not only reckless but detrimental to informed political dialogue. Tinubu is a builder, not a destroyer; he honors the rule of law and has never resorted to brutal measures to quell opposition or dissent. To draw such inflammatory parallels is to strip away the weight of history that should instead serve as a mirror for our actions, urging us toward constructive rather than destructive narratives.
The onus of unity also rests squarely on the shoulders of opposition parties, as Obasanjo’s unwarranted plea for leaders like Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso to amalgamate lacks nuance. Despite his calls for unification, it is clear that the failure to consolidate their factions spring from internal disarray rather than from any singular success of the Tinubu administration. A strong democracy demands strong opposition, yet failure to maintain coherence amongst themselves should not obfuscate the focus on governance.
As Nigerians, we find ourselves not in a season of warfare, but in a vital period of rebuilding. President Tinubu has inherited complex challenges including economic struggles and political divisions, yet he remains steadfast in steering Nigeria toward a brighter future. The opposition’s inclination to stir discord through exaggerated rhetoric does our country a disservice. It is time we embrace a discourse anchored in hope and action rather than fear.
We recognize the freedom of expression granted to President Obasanjo; however, elder statesmen must wield their platforms responsibly. A united Nigeria thrives on dialogue, cooperation, and reform not alarmist comparisons or fear. The path toward progress is laid not by conflict but by mutual understanding, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to shared goals.
In this light, the AATSG stands resolutely behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he champions the Renewed Hope Agenda a vision meant to uplift every Nigerian, irrespective of ethnicity, creed, or political allegiance.
Signed,
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG
Email: nchairman@aatsg.org.ng
Phone: +234-9053535322
Website: www.aatsg.org.ng
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