As the 2027 Nigerian presidential election approaches, politicians are being urged to focus on issue-based campaigns and their legacies, rather than resorting to name-calling and empty promises. According to a recent article by Guardian Nigeria, Nigerians must demand more from their leaders and prioritize records, legacies, and history when casting their votes. The article highlights the importance of evaluating a candidate's track record and character, rather than relying on fabricated history or distorted records.
Atiku Abubakar, a presidential aspirant, has been accused of distorting history and making a 360-degree U-turn on his stance on petroleum subsidy. During the presidency of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Abubakar chaired a committee that worked to sell the idea of withdrawing petroleum subsidy, but now he is advocating for its return. This move has been seen as a desperate attempt to win votes and has raised questions about his credibility.
Peter Obi, another presidential aspirant, has also been accused of distorting his records and achievements in Anambra State. Obi had claimed to have turned Anambra into an "Eldorado state" with a thriving economy, but recent reports have revealed that the state was left with a significant debt profile, unpaid salary arrears, and a paltry N2.13 billion for his successor. These revelations have raised concerns about Obi's ability to lead Nigeria to prosperity.
Datti Baba-Ahmed, Obi's running mate in the 2023 elections, recently spoke out about Obi's lack of experience and performance record, calling on him to withdraw from the presidential race. This statement has been seen as a significant blow to Obi's campaign and has raised questions about his suitability for the presidency.
A comparison of the economic records of Obi and President Bola Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State, reveals significant differences. Tinubu grew Lagos' Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N600 million to N7 billion during his tenure, while Obi inherited an IGR of N400 million and left it at N1.5 billion. Tinubu also established several novel agencies and institutions to drive economic growth and modernize the public service.
Tinubu's economic wizardry and innovative approach to governance have been widely acknowledged. He established the Lagos State Inland Revenue Service (LIRS), Alpha Beta, and the Enron Independent Power Producing Plant, which have contributed significantly to the state's economic growth. In contrast, Obi's economic management in Anambra State has been criticized, with many questioning his ability to lead Nigeria's economy.
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigerians must carefully evaluate the records, legacies, and history of the aspirants. The article concludes that it is essential to prioritize issue-based campaigns and character, rather than relying on empty promises or fabricated history. By doing so, Nigerians can make informed decisions and choose a leader who is capable of driving the country's prosperity.
Key points
- Nigerians must prioritize records, legacies, and history when casting their votes in the 2027 presidential election.
- Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have been accused of distorting their records and achievements.
- President Bola Tinubu's economic record in Lagos State has been cited as an example of effective governance.
