Nigeria's Ambassador to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, has publicly criticized Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, over his October 1 Independence Day address. Fani-Kayode described Atiku's address as "intellectually-flawed, highly disrespectful, inherently dishonest and utterly bereft of decency and logic." He expressed disappointment that Atiku refused to address President Bola Tinubu by his official title, instead using his first name "Bola" throughout the address.
Fani-Kayode cited Akin Osuntokun, former Special Adviser on Political Affairs to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also criticized Atiku for repeatedly referring to Tinubu by his first name. Osuntokun argued that while Atiku was entitled to criticize Tinubu, using his first name was disrespectful and lacked decorum. Fani-Kayode agreed with Osuntokun's assessment but chose not to refer to Atiku as "Kachalla," a term he implied was a suitable but undeserved label.
Fani-Kayode recalled Atiku's past confrontations with political leaders, including his relationship with Obasanjo. He accused Atiku of betraying Obasanjo shortly after assuming office in 1999 and conspiring with some governors to challenge Obasanjo's leadership ahead of the 2003 election. Fani-Kayode also accused Atiku of publicly insulting Obasanjo between 2003 and 2007.
Fani-Kayode further criticized Atiku for his comments on former President Goodluck Jonathan, describing him as an "inexperienced young man" who made mistakes. Atiku also faced criticism for his response to Vice President Kashim Shettima, who challenged him to account for his tenure in office and contributions to the people since entering politics.
Fani-Kayode questioned Atiku's reference to northern culture, recalling his allegations against Atiku over his relationship with Obasanjo. He accused Atiku of failing to demonstrate values associated with northern culture, including decency, restraint, and loyalty. Fani-Kayode cited the 2022 killing of Deborah Samuel, a Christian student lynched and burnt by a mob in Sokoto State.
Fani-Kayode alleged that Atiku initially posted a condolence message following Deborah Samuel's killing but later deleted it, denying that he had removed the post. He accused Atiku of being driven by an "inordinate ambition" and a "pathological obsession" with power. This obsession, Fani-Kayode claimed, led Atiku to engage in questionable behavior.
The public exchange between Fani-Kayode and Atiku highlights the ongoing tensions within Nigeria's political landscape. Fani-Kayode's criticism of Atiku's conduct and address has sparked a renewed debate about the level of respect and decorum expected from public figures. The incident has also raised questions about Atiku's leadership style and his ability to work with other politicians.
Key points
- Fani-Kayode criticizes Atiku Abubakar for addressing President Bola Tinubu by his first name.
- Atiku's past confrontations with political leaders, including Obasanjo, are highlighted by Fani-Kayode.
- Fani-Kayode accuses Atiku of deleting a condolence message for Deborah Samuel, a Christian student killed in Sokoto State.
