Olusola Sanni, a strategic media associate to Atiku Abubakar, has defended the former vice-president's practice of referring to President Bola Tinubu as 'Bola'. Sanni made the remarks on Channels Television's Morning Brief on October 12. He cited a song composed in honour of Tinubu by a northern Nigerian musician, Dauda Kahutu Rarara, titled 'Omo Ologo', which translates to 'child of glory' or 'a boy'. Sanni argued that Atiku was not the first to address Tinubu informally.
The controversy surrounding Atiku's reference to Tinubu by his first name has sparked debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Some political figures, including Akin Osuntokun and Festus Keyamo, have criticised Atiku for the practice, considering it disrespectful to the office of the president. During the Morning Brief programme, an anchor, Kelly, questioned why Atiku repeatedly addressed Tinubu by his first name rather than acknowledging him as president.
Sanni's defence of Atiku's stance was based on the song 'Omo Ologo', which was performed in honour of Tinubu. He stated that the Yoruba expression, although translated as 'a boy', is generally complimentary rather than derogatory. The song, according to Sanni, shows that Atiku was not the first to refer to Tinubu informally. This has sparked a renewed debate on the etiquette of addressing the president.
The issue has gained significant attention in the country's political landscape. Atiku's repeated use of Tinubu's first name in his political statements has been met with criticism from various quarters. However, Sanni's argument is that if a musician from northern Nigeria could refer to Tinubu as 'Omo Ologo', Atiku should not be criticised for using his first name.
President Bola Tinubu has been in office since May 2023. Since then, some political figures have been critical of Atiku's stance on addressing him. The former vice-president has maintained his position, despite the criticism. The development has sparked a renewed debate on the protocol of addressing the president.
The controversy comes as the country prepares for the 2027 presidential election. Atiku Abubakar, the ADC presidential candidate, has been actively engaging in political activities. His aide's defence of his stance on addressing Tinubu is seen as part of the ongoing politicking.
The debate on the etiquette of addressing the president is ongoing. While some consider it a sign of disrespect to refer to the president by his first name, others argue that it is a matter of personal preference. The issue has sparked a renewed discussion on the protocol of addressing the president and the implications for the country's political landscape.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar's aide defends using 'Bola' instead of 'President Tinubu', citing a northern Nigerian musician's song.
- The controversy surrounding Atiku's reference to Tinubu by his first name has sparked debate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
- Some political figures consider Atiku's practice disrespectful to the office of the president.
