Chief Bode George and His Blind Criticism of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar || By Sayo Alagbe
PanNigerianNews
4 min read
Sayo Àlàgbé
There is a time for everything under the sun, and the current political and economic situations in Nigeria demand urgent attention and solutions, rather than unnecessary criticisms and finger-pointing. Since independence, Nigeria has been plagued by political and economic malaise, without any effective remedy in sight.
The country’s condition was once better, particularly during the era of regional governance where each region operated independently and effectively, fostering development and economic prosperity.
However, those days are long gone. Since the emergence of both military and civilian governments, Nigeria has struggled to find stability. Thankfully, the military has now retreated to focus on its territorial defence and peacekeeping duties, leaving governance in the hands of civilians. However, since the transition to civilian rule, the country’s situation has not improved because successive civilian presidents have been unable to reverse the economic downturn and the situation has only worsened. The masses continue to suffer from poverty and deprivation, with little to be proud of in the current state of the nation. The electricity supply is erratic; the roads are in deplorable condition, the economy is in a comatose state, and healthcare is practically non-existent, to name just a few of the many challenges.
This article was prompted by the recent remarks of Chief Olabode George, the former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who criticized the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, claiming that he would have failed as president if he had won the election. From my perspective, Chief Bode George has evolved into a true elder statesman, offering advice to political leaders. I am aware of his recent commendation of his former political rival, now President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he praised as a capable administrator whose tenure will leave a positive legacy. This is commendable, as no one expects Chief Bode George to oppose President Tinubu to the bitter end. As the saying goes, in politics, there are no permanent enemies, only permanent interests.
In the light of Nigeria’s current political situation, I would advise Chief Bode George to rise above political affiliations and position himself as an independent elder statesman. He should use his experience, both in the military and civilian circles, to provide constructive advice to the nation’s leaders. He should be unafraid to speak the truth, calling a spade a spade, rather than offering praise where it is not deserved in order to curry favour. His criticisms should be constructive, regardless of whom they may offend. This approach will earn him greater respect as a leader of integrity who lives with sincerity of purpose. He should be a better elderstatesman now than his poignant postures.
Regarding his criticisms of Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, I would advise Chief Bode George not to play God by predicting that Atiku would have performed poorly if he had won the 2023 election. The success or failure of a leader depends on several factors, including the sensibility of the person in power, the competence of their cabinet, their ability to listen to constructive criticism, and their willingness to take advice. Moreover, a leader’s closeness to God through prayers and supplications can also play a role in their success.
Chief Bode George should take the initiative to convene meetings with opinion leaders, those who are willing to rise above political interests and dedicate their time to advising the president, state governors, members of the Senate, the House of Representatives, and State Assemblies on how best to govern the country. He and others like him should seize the opportunity to advise the incumbent President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that Nigeria is still far from achieving its potential.
The Nigerian masses are suffering and wallowing in poverty due to various challenges, including the removal of fuel subsidies, increased passport fees, higher electricity tariffs, rising cooking gas prices, escalating transportation costs, increased tuition fees, and soaring food prices. It is crucial to provide the president with advice on how to alleviate these burdens and improve the lives of the Nigerian people.
In conclusion, Nigeria is in dire need of leaders who are willing to put the interests of the nation above their own. Chief George, with his wealth of experience and wisdom, is in a unique position to offer valuable guidance to the country’s leaders. By remaining true to his principles and speaking the truth, he can help steer Nigeria toward a brighter future.
Sayo Àlàgbé, CEO of Timfred Communications Nig. Ltd, is a media practitioner, culture promoter, radio consultant, author, publisher and could be reached on [email protected] 07039535757.
