In a strongly worded article, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for referring to President Bola Tinubu by his first name 'Bola' instead of his presidential title. Fani-Kayode described Abubakar's speech on October 1st as intellectually flawed, disrespectful, and bereft of decency, logic, and rationality. He expressed disappointment that Abubakar refused to address President Tinubu with the respect due to his office.
Fani-Kayode cited Bashorun Akin Osuntokun, a former Special Advisor on Politics to President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also criticized Abubakar's behavior. Osuntokun stated that while Abubakar was entitled to criticize the President, his repeated use of Tinubu's first name was a needless display of disrespect. Osuntokun emphasized that this behavior was not acceptable and was an insult to Nigeria.
Fani-Kayode questioned Abubakar's consistency, recalling his past behavior towards former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He noted that Abubakar had betrayed Obasanjo in 2003 and had publicly insulted him from 2003 to 2007. Fani-Kayode also mentioned that Abubakar had described former President Goodluck Jonathan as an "inexperienced young man" who made mistakes.
Fani-Kayode further criticized Abubakar for his comments on Vice President Kashim Shettima, describing him as disrespectful. He also recalled Abubakar's reaction to the murder of Deborah Samuel, a young Christian girl who was burnt alive in Sokoto in 2022. Fani-Kayode noted that Abubakar had initially posted condolences but later removed them.
Fani-Kayode accused Abubakar of lacking basic respect for the Office of the President and questioned his loyalty. He stated that Abubakar's ambition and desperation for power had led him to make vain promises that he was incapable of achieving. Fani-Kayode concluded that Abubakar's behavior made him unworthy of holding public office.
Fani-Kayode also recalled Abubakar's running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, describing Abubakar as "unelectable" and having "nothing new to bring to the table". He emphasized that Abubakar's actions and words demonstrated a lack of decency, restraint, and patience.
The article has sparked a heated debate, with many Nigerians weighing in on the issue. Fani-Kayode's criticism of Abubakar has been seen as a reflection of the ongoing political tensions in Nigeria. The article has raised questions about the level of respect and decorum expected of public figures, particularly those seeking high office.
Key points
- Femi Fani-Kayode criticizes Atiku Abubakar for referring to President Tinubu as 'Bola' instead of his presidential title.
- Fani-Kayode recalls Abubakar's past behavior towards former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other public figures.
- Fani-Kayode accuses Abubakar of lacking basic respect for the Office of the President and questioning his loyalty.
