Politics
[OPINION] Why Bola Tinubu Lost The 2023 Presidential Election
In his article, “Osinbajo’s Road to Abuja: The Untold Story,” Olawale Olaleye told how Osinbajo ‘defeated’ Bola Tinubu to become Muhammadu Buhari’s vice-pre
sidential candidate.
According to the story, early in 2015, as soon as Buhari became the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu set up a committee to come up with a way to justify to the nation his inevitable choice as Buhari’s running mate. That was because the Buhari-Tinubu ticket would have imposed Muslim-Muslim candidates on Nigeria. One of the committee members was Yemi Osinbajo, the current Vice President of Nigeria. As the story went, Osinbajo expressed to the committee members that it would be difficult for him to go back to his constituency and explain the potential Muslim-Muslim ticket. Osinbajo’s discontent got to Bola Tinubu, and he held it as a grudge against his former Attorney-General when he was the governor of Lagos State.
While this was going on, Muhammadu Buhari’s committee set up to shortlist his possible Vice Presidential candidates arrived at three names. One of the names was Yemi Osinbajo. When Buhari took the three names to Bola Tinubu to give him the honor of picking one in recognition of his contribution to Buhari’s campaign, Tinubu flared up when he did not see his name on the list. In the intriguing negotiations and permutations that followed, despite Bola Tinubu’s initial rejection, Osinbajo ended up as the Vice Presidential candidate of Buhari instead of Tinubu.
That was how Tinubu lost out in his quest to be Buhari’s running mate in 2015. Of course, if Bola Tinubu had been Vice President for the last six years, a different conversation would be going on in Nigeria today.
Now, here is how Tinubu will lose out in his quest to become the President of Nigeria in 2023.
Undoubtedly, amongst those who have declared their interest in running for president in the 2023 election, Bola Tinubu is the most formidable. It was not a secret that he had nursed the ambition of being president since he left the governorship of Lagos State in 2007. He has invested a lot of political capital in building a humongous political structure across Nigeria. As the political season opens up, he hopes to deploy all his resources to attain his ultimate political goal.
The troubles with Bola Tinubu’s candidacy are enormous. Some are within his control, while others are not. No candidate for the presidency of Nigeria has ever come into the campaign with much political baggage as Tinubu, not even Muhammadu Buhari.
We can find in three folds everything wrong with Muhammadu Buhari in Bola Tinubu. In 2015, there was the myth that Buhari’s abbreviated performance in 1984 as the military Head of State was what Nigeria needed. We cannot say the same about Tinubu.
Nobody can say that Tinubu’s abysmal performance as governor in Lagos State from 1999 – 2007 displayed any spark of brilliance that can make a dent in Nigeria’s precarious situation today. In 2015, some thought Buhari was disciplined. In 2022, everyone knows that Tinubu is not disciplined.
In 2015, some saw Buhari as incorruptible. In 2022, everyone knows Tinubu as the epitome of bullion-van-level corruption in Nigeria. In 2015, some looked at Buhari as healthy and agile. In 2022, everyone knows Tinubu is ill and sluggish. In 2015, some perceived Buhari as someone that commanded respect within military circles. In 2022, everyone knows that the only military wings that respect Tinubu are the touts, alayes and the area boys.
Unlike Buhari, who had several opportunities to try, Tinubu has just one chance – 2023. It is a do-or-die situation for him. He has no second chance. If he doesn’t win, he goes home without fulfilling his dream. That puts tremendous pressure on the man.
So, we expect a vigorous campaign from Bola Tinubu. And as the first week of his one-shot campaign shows, it won’t be an easy ride for the self-described “kingmaker” who wants to be a king.
The self-inflicted personal baggage of Tinubu is well known to all. His inability to present a straight biography is one of them. Nothing about him is straightforward – his age, his name, his certificates, his schools (primary, secondary, university), his parents, his source of wealth, the state of his health, his ever-changing ideology, etc. Even his classmates are unknown. At least, Buhari has been taking pictures with his secondary school classmates as proof that he went to secondary school.
Though possession of a crooked biography has never stopped anyone from being the president of Nigeria, the case of Tinubu is so egregious. They are coming at a point when Nigerians are less tolerant of such character flaws. It does not help that more and more Nigerians are beginning to see the correlation between such flaws and the performance of the bearer, as Muhammadu Buhari exemplified. It does not help Tinubu that Nigerians are coming into a new awareness of how personal things affect professional things and how individual faults impact the collective interest of we, the people.
Of course, in Nigeria’s crooked democracy, the people have little say on who will ultimately become their president. The power brokers are the most significant determinants of who will emerge as president.
Here is what is working for Bola Tinubu.
If APC fields Tinubu as its presidential candidate, APC is finished. If APC does not field Tinubu as its presidential candidate, APC is finished. As a result of that reality, APC is trying, but it has not found a way to extricate itself from that quagmire.
In 2015, when Nigeria was still at its innocent stage, Buhari was forced to pick a pastor as his running mate to deflect the perception of him as an Islamist. In almost seven years in office, Buhari’s obscene mismanagement of Nigeria’s diversity raises the stake so high for Bola Tinubu. The heightened ethno-religious tension in Nigeria complicates Tinubu’s life on so many levels.
If Tinubu were to become the presidential candidate of the APC, his first challenge is finding a Vice Presidential candidate that will be satisfactory to Northern leaders. As we have seen in the past, a Northern Christian is not satisfactory to the North as a vice presidential candidate when the presidential candidate is a Southern. It doesn’t matter if the Southern is a Muslim because, in the North, a Southern Muslim is not seen as authentic as a Northern Muslim. The North would rather have a Southern Christian president with a Muslim vice president than a Southern Muslim president with a Northern Christian vice president.
While a Muslim-Muslim ticket could win the presidency in 1993, it was unacceptable in 2015. And that was why Bola Tinubu was not named the Vice President to Buhari then. Buhari’s performance makes it ten times more difficult to sell a Muslim-Muslim ticket to Nigerians in 2023. Of course, Bola Tinubu thinks he can sell it, another indication that he lives in a world of those who have taken mkpurummiri. Tinubu thinks his Southwest base, known to care less about whether their leader is Muslim or Christian, will abide by him. This is so 1993.
But the truth is that the power brokers in the North are not going to take that chance. They instead back another candidate that will not bring about so many complications to their interest. And that is why they are leaving the room for a Northern candidate to be the presidential candidate of the PDP, just in case they need to default to supporting the party in 2023.
Another thing not working for Bola Tinubu is that in northern power circles, nobody trusts him. He is not an Obasanjo. In the past, he had expressed his distaste for one-Nigeria. Coming out of NADECO, he once flirted with the campaign for a radical restructuring of Nigeria in ways the North detests. The bottom line is that Tinubu does not fit into the character that either the North or the South will want for president. No wonder the Southwest-based cultural group, Afenifere quickly disassociated themselves from his campaign for president.
When it is all said and done, history will record that Bola Tinubu used the first part of his life to destroy the last. He was not the first to do so. And he will not be the last. That realization should console him. And irrespective of who becomes the president of Nigeria in 2023, Nigeria would be better off than the country would have been if it were to be Bola Tinubu.
Okonkwo teaches Post-Colonial African History at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. He is also the host of Dr. Damages Show. His books include “This American Life Sef”, “Children of a Retired God” among others.
In addressing claims of wrongdoing, a balanced and fair approach is crucial. Respect all perspectives, follow due process, and ensure transparency for truth and accountability. Stand with silenced women and demand equality in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Reject shielding the powerful and opt for justice, equality, and democracy. Support brave women like Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who challenge abuse and fight for political transparency. Demand accountability and an inclusive democracy that values women’s voices.
Despite facing opposition, Natasha bravely shared her allegations, urging action. The Senate’s dismissive response raises doubts about their integrity.
It’s a widespread issue in African politics, with women facing exploitation and violence. Nigeria must address these deep-rooted problems.
Advocate for a systemic change, not just Akpabio’s resignation. Ensure women’s full participation in governance and dismantle structures enabling harassment. Nigeria must promote transparency and accountability, supporting women in politics.
Independent investigation into Natasha’s claims is crucial for transparency and accountability. Nigeria must improve its response to sexual harassment in public office, protecting women and promoting democracy. This fight for justice transcends individual interests, uniting civil society for equality and justice. How can we address the myriad of issues, thought processes, and solutions that impact our nation in Nigeria, with the aim of bolstering our democracy and ensuring that women have the rights and opportunities to be active participants in the democratic process?
To strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and empower women as active participants, it is imperative to focus on implementing robust gender equality legislation, promoting education and awareness on the importance of women’s participation, creating women empowerment programs, encouraging more women to run for political office, combatting gender-based violence, providing supportive infrastructure, and promoting positive media representation.
By addressing these key areas, Nigeria can make substantial progress towards enhancing its democracy and ensuring women have the opportunities to participate meaningfully in governance.
Through a concerted effort to address these issues and implement effective solutions, Nigeria can pave the way for a more inclusive and representative democratic landscape that empowers all citizens, regardless of gender.
Should there be a public inquiry into this matter to fully leverage the benefits of the digital age?
Let’s explore the high possibility of a public inquiry with unwavering assertiveness and investigate how embracing digital advancements can bring positive change.
Indeed, a public inquiry into this matter is necessary and essential to leverage the advantages of the digital age. It is imperative that the truth is uncovered and justice is served. The transparency and accountability provided by a public inquiry are crucial in addressing the issues at hand and ensuring that those responsible are held to account.
In this digital era, where information is readily accessible, and communication is instantaneous, a public inquiry can harness the power of technology to reach a wider audience, gather evidence efficiently, and facilitate public engagement.
It is time to embrace the digital age as a tool for positive change, and public inquiry is a vital step in leveraging technology to improve society.
Prominent in Nigeria’s political sphere, Godswill Akpabio wields power through alliances and controversial actions. Despite insensitive remarks and allegations of complicity in cover-ups, the Senate protects him.
This sends a dangerous message that women’s rights are disposable, perpetuating a culture where speaking out leads to isolation.
Sextortion, highlighted by Transparency International, hinders progress and demands a radical governance shift.
An impartial investigation into Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations is vital, excluding Senate influence. Nigeria must revamp its response to sexual harassment in public office, safeguarding women in governance. Civil society, advocates, and media support are crucial in this battle for justice and equality. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension reveals Nigeria’s dire political reality, but amid the despair, resilient voices advocate for reform across Africa.
To enhance democracy, Akpabio should step down pending an independent investigation into the harassment allegations. This action would demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability. Acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations and cooperating fully with the investigation would further uphold democratic integrity and ethical conduct.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can contribute to democracy by courageously speaking against harassment and demanding accountability. Engaging with the investigation, advocating for justice, and amplifying the voices of other women facing similar challenges are crucial steps. By promoting gender equality, accountability, and reforms to protect women in power, Natasha can play a key role in advancing democracy and women’s rights in Nigeria.
How can citizens and the government collaborate to bolster Nigeria’s democracy in this particular scenario? Let’s explore the roles each party can play in this critical issue.
Citizens are crucial in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy by holding government officials accountable for their actions and demanding transparency and justice. In the case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citizens can support her by advocating for a thorough investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment and ensuring that she receives a fair outcome. They can also actively participate in civil society initiatives that promote gender equality and women’s rights, fostering a culture of respect and accountability within the political sphere.
On the government’s part, they must demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of gender, are treated fairly and protected from harassment and discrimination. This includes conducting thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct and implementing policies that promote gender equality and safeguard women’s rights in the workplace. By working collaboratively with citizens and civil society organisations to address systemic issues of gender-based violence and discrimination, the government can play a significant role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
Nonetheless, when considering claims or allegations made by individuals, it is crucial to approach the situation with a balanced and fair mindset. It is important to remember that everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and all parties involved deserve the opportunity to present their side of the story and have their claims thoroughly investigated.
In the case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims against Akpabio, it is essential to acknowledge and consider the potential motivations and biases of all individuals involved. Without concrete evidence or information, it is not fair to make definitive judgments or accusations about someone’s character or intentions.
It is important to uphold the principles of due process and transparency in addressing allegations of misconduct, harassment, or blackmail. This involves conducting a thorough, impartial investigation to gather all relevant facts and evidence before reaching any conclusions. Fairness and impartiality are essential in ensuring that justice is served and that the truth is ultimately revealed.
Maintaining a balanced and fair approach when evaluating claims and allegations is crucial in upholding the principles of justice and accountability. All parties involved should be given the opportunity to present their perspectives and have their claims thoroughly investigated before any definitive judgments or conclusions are made.
In conclusion, the principles of balance, fairness, and due process are crucial when navigating claims and allegations in any context. When evaluating allegations, it is essential to consider the motivations, biases, and perspectives of all parties involved. Upholding justice requires a thorough and impartial investigation that gathers all relevant facts and evidence before reaching conclusions. By maintaining a balanced and fair approach, we can uphold the integrity of our institutions, ensure accountability, and ultimately work towards a more just and equitable society.
As we find ourselves at the pivotal juncture of President Tinubu’s first term, during the midpoint where progress and potential intersect, it is imperative that we seize this moment to propel our nation forward in economic development and sustainability.
Building upon the solid foundation laid by President Tinubu, we must harness renewed energy and direction to further enhance his successes.
By boldly embracing innovative strategies, nurturing strategic partnerships, and enacting transformative policies, we can drive sustainable growth and ensure lasting prosperity for all citizens.
We can enrich our economic landscape and pave the way for enduring progress through unwavering dedication to these principles and a resolute focus on our national objectives. United in our actions and unwavering commitment to forward-looking initiatives, we can chart a course towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria.
El-Rufai’s feeble attempt to challenge the political powerhouse that is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not just an exercise in futility but a stark reminder of the stark contrast between self-serving interests and authentic leadership driven by a genuine commitment to national well-being.
In a political landscape where opportunistic alliances and personal vendettas reign supreme, President Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to revitalising Nigeria’s economy and promoting sustainable development stands out as a beacon of hope. His bold reforms in agriculture, infrastructure, education, and governance have transformed the lives of millions of Nigerians and laid the foundation for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
The establishment of the National Agricultural Development Fund, initiatives like the Dry Season Farming Initiative, and massive infrastructure projects like the Port Harcourt-Aba rail line and the Lagos-Calabar Super Highway have not only enhanced connectivity and boosted economic activity but have also created countless job opportunities and improved the standard of living for citizens across the country.
President Tinubu’s visionary leadership has prioritised education by expanding access to higher education through initiatives like the Student Loans Act 2024, ensuring that Nigeria’s youth have the tools they need to thrive in a competitive global economy. His efforts to streamline tax policies and improve the business environment have catalysed economic growth, increased government revenue, and reduced bureaucratic hurdles that hinder entrepreneurship and innovation.
In stark contrast, El-Rufai’s erratic political manoeuvring and thinly veiled attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s visionary leadership only serve to highlight his lack of credibility and vision. His shifting allegiances and disregard for the national interest in favour of personal vendettas reveal a fundamental flaw in his character and leadership style.
As Sule Lamido rightly points out, authentic leadership is not about personal ambitions or settling scores but about selfless dedication to the common good. President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic development and sustainability exemplifies this principle, inspiring hope and driving progress towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.
El-Rufai’s futile attempts to challenge President Tinubu pale compared to the transformative impact of Tinubu’s visionary leadership. As Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its journey towards sustainable development and economic prosperity, it is imperative that we rally behind leaders who prioritise the national interest above personal grievances and partisan politics. President Tinubu’s bold reforms and unwavering dedication to economic development and sustainability offer a clear path to a more prosperous and equitable future for all Nigerians.
How exactly is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu pushing for economic development and sustainability to benefit the citizens and fortify Nigeria’s democracy? Through what concerted efforts and strategic initiatives is his administration robustly working towards these goals? As we delve into the intricate details of his vision and actions, we not only gain insight into the potential impact on the lives of Nigerians but also unravel the threads that weave a more prosperous, inclusive, and democratic fabric for our nation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic development and sustainability is a promise and a bold and visionary agenda to transform Nigeria into a prosperous and sustainable nation. His strategic reforms and initiatives are designed to benefit every citizen and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by fostering inclusive growth, creating job opportunities, and improving all Nigerians’ living standards.
President Tinubu’s focus on economic development is evident in his ambitious agricultural sector reforms, such as the establishment of the National Agricultural Development Fund and initiatives like the Dry Season Farming Initiative. These measures boost agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and create employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians, particularly in rural areas where poverty and unemployment are prevalent.
Furthermore, President Tinubu’s massive infrastructure projects, including the operationalization of the Port Harcourt-Aba rail line and the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Super Highway, are not just about improving transportation and connectivity but are also catalysts for economic growth and regional integration. These infrastructure projects create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, attract investments, and stimulate economic activity, ultimately benefiting the citizens and strengthening Nigeria’s economy.
President Tinubu’s initiatives in education, such as the enactment of the Student Loans Act 2024, exemplify his commitment to empowering Nigeria’s youth and equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the global economy. By expanding access to higher education and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, President Tinubu is nurturing a new generation of leaders and professionals who will drive economic growth and sustainability in the future.
Moreover, President Tinubu’s efforts to streamline tax policies, improve the business environment, and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks aim to make Nigeria more business-friendly, attract investments, and boost economic competitiveness. These reforms increase government revenue and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, create jobs, and contribute to economic development and sustainability.
President Tinubu’s vision for economic growth prioritises inclusive development, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure, paving the way for a prosperous and equitable future for all Nigerians. Strengthening democracy through strategic policies, his administration’s efforts reflect strides towards comprehensive progress. To sustain this momentum, anti-corruption measures must be intensified to uphold transparency and accountability, fostering public trust and efficient resource allocation. Building on past success, continued focus on governance and economic strategies will propel Nigeria towards a brighter future in 2027.
Additionally, the President must reduce unnecessary borrowing, thereby promoting fiscal sustainability. Moreover, boosting internal productivity, mainly through initiatives that prioritise Nigerians feeding Nigerians, will enhance food security, stimulate economic growth, and reduce dependency on external sources. These strategic actions and other reforms and initiatives will foster sustainable development and inclusive prosperity and enhance the administration’s chances of success in the forthcoming 2027 elections.
In conclusion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure has undeniably ushered in significant advancements across various sectors, setting the stage for ongoing progress and prosperity. His administration can solidify transparency, accountability, and self-sustainability by steadfastly prioritising robust anti-corruption measures, curbing unnecessary borrowing, and catalysing internal productivity. These decisive actions reinforce public confidence in the government and pave the way for a more resilient and inclusive society. As Nigeria steels itself for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2027, it is imperative that President Tinubu tenaciously pursues these vital reforms to secure a brighter and more promising future for all Nigerians.
The Peoples’ Parliament, an advocacy group dedicated to the promotion of good governance in Nigeria, has expressed profound appreciation for the transformative leadership of the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti and that of the Executive Mayor of Umunneochi Local Government Area, Chief Sunny Afurobi.
Rising from its first quarterly meeting of 2025, held at its headquarters in Lagos, the group, through its National Chairman, Chief Richard Ikpe (Nwazuoro Oha), and National Vice Chairman, Chief Kingsley Madu (Ohamadike), issued a strong statement in recognition of Governor Otti’s developmental strides in Abia State.
The group commended Governor Otti for his outstanding contributions to infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and civil service reforms, and acknowledged that his leadership has brought about a total transformation of Abia State, making a lasting impact on the lives of its citizens.
“Governor Otti’s administration has ushered in a new era of progress, with remarkable strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and civil service reforms—bringing about a total transformation of Abia State,” said the group.
A special appreciation was extended to the Governor for officially commencing the construction of the 12-kilometre Ngodo-Umuaku-Mbala road project, and highlighted the significance of this development, noting that it has given the people of Umunneochi a long-awaited sense of belonging since the return of democracy in 1999.
“The commencement of the 12-kilometre Ngodo-Umuaku-Mbala road project is a historic milestone that has given the people of Umunneochi a renewed sense of belonging—something they have long awaited since the return of democracy in 1999,” the advocacy group stated.
Furthermore, the advocacy group expressed deep gratitude for the Governor’s commitment to fully reintegrating the people of Isuochi into the state by promising to repair the long-neglected Mmam Bridge.
The bridge, which has been abandoned for over half a century, holds immense importance for the border community, thus, the group emphasized that fixing the bridge will not only ease transportation challenges but will also contribute significantly to the economic and social development of the area.
“The long-neglected Mmam Bridge, abandoned for over half a century, holds immense importance for the border community—its reconstruction will not only ease transportation challenges but also serve as a catalyst for economic and social development in the area,” the group remarked.
The Peoples’ Parliament also lauded the Executive Mayor of Umunneochi LGA, Chief Sunny Afurobi, for his remarkable achievements within just three months of assuming office, and specifically acknowledged his efforts in stabilizing power supply, grading access roads, and implementing initiatives in youth empowerment, agriculture, education, sports, and entertainment.
The group praised his hands-on approach and visible results, which have brought tangible benefits to the local government area explaining why he is enjoying the support of the good people of Umunneochi.
“Mayor Afurobi’s dynamic and results-driven leadership has significantly improved power supply, road accessibility, and youth empowerment programs, earning him the overwhelming support of the good people of Umunneochi,” the group further said.
Reaffirming its commitment to the progress of Abia State, the Peoples’ Parliament pledged unwavering support for Governor Otti and Mayor Afurobi and vowed to mobilize massive support for the Governor’s re-election bid in 2027, ensuring continuity of his developmental agenda.
The group also recalled the critical role it played in facilitating the emergence of Governor Otti, both during his time in APGA and in the 2023 general election, which ultimately brought him to power. They expressed satisfaction that their trust in his leadership has been validated through his numerous achievements.
The Peoples’ Parliament concluded its meeting with a firm resolution to continue advocating for good governance and holding leaders accountable to the people. They reiterated their belief that Governor Otti and Mayor Afurobi represent the new era of responsive and transformative leadership that Abia State deserves.
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