Kehinde Fajobi
From high-stakes political consultations to alarming revelations of ransom payments and a massive new budget, Nigeria’s political landscape experienced significant shifts this week. Former President Obasanjo hosted Rabiu Kwankwaso for a discussion that hints at the 2027 race; Tinubu championed Ghana’s democratic values while dodging criticisms at home; and Solomon Dalung exposed what he claims is a more dangerous cabal under Tinubu’s government. Meanwhile, a staggering ₦2.23 trillion in ransoms paid by Nigerians has laid bare the nation’s insecurity crisis. These stories, along with Tinubu’s ambitious ₦47.9 trillion budget, paint a complex picture of leadership, governance, and citizen frustration.
Kwankwaso Meets Obasanjo to Discuss Nigeria’s Political Future
Former NNPP presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta. Joining them was ex-Governor Donald Duke, as they deliberated on governance and national issues. While specifics remain under wraps, the timing signals that the race for 2027 has quietly begun.
Implications:
Though such high-profile meetings may appear to focus on national progress, scepticism abounds. Nigerians question whether these alliances genuinely aim to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges or merely preserve political self-interest. Amid cautious optimism, many are left wondering if these dialogues can translate into tangible benefits for citizens or remain exercises in political theatrics.
Tinubu Urges ECOWAS to Emulate Ghana’s Peaceful Elections
At the 66th ECOWAS Ordinary Session, President Bola Tinubu lauded Ghana’s electoral maturity, urging other nations to emulate its peaceful processes. He highlighted ECOWAS achievements under his leadership, including strides in regional trade and security, while calling for renewed commitment to unity.
Implications:
Tinubu’s praise for Ghana rings hollow against the backdrop of Nigeria’s electoral controversies. The irony of Nigeria—Africa’s “giant”—seeking lessons from its smaller neighbour is glaring. Ghana’s electoral success lies in robust institutions and civic engagement, a stark contrast to Nigeria’s flawed systems. If Nigeria truly seeks respect as a democratic leader, it must confront its electoral shortcomings and reform its processes.
Tinubu’s Cabal More Sophisticated, Dangerous Than Buhari’s – Dalung
In a bold interview, Solomon Dalung claimed Tinubu’s government is manipulated by an experienced and dangerous cabal that shields the president from critical realities. Comparing it to Buhari’s less adept cabal, Dalung painted a picture of elitist manipulation thriving under Tinubu.
Implications:
Dalung’s accusations suggest an even darker chapter of governance for Nigeria. If true, a government dominated by unseen operatives spells doom for transparency and accountability. Nigerians are left grappling with the question: how much longer will leadership remain a tool for elitist agendas while citizens bear the brunt of corruption and insecurity?
2027: Obasanjo, Gowon, Babangida Must Unite Opposition – Lukman
Salihu Lukman called on Nigeria’s past leaders to rally the opposition and form a united front against Tinubu’s re-election bid. He criticised fragmented opposition efforts, arguing they risk extending what he termed “satanic leadership.”
Implications:
Lukman’s plea reflects the growing dissatisfaction with leadership failures. Yet, his call for unity among Nigeria’s recycled elites sparks mixed reactions. Can figures synonymous with past governance challenges provide the solutions Nigerians desperately seek? True reform may demand fresh, visionary leadership rather than a reunion of political veterans.
Nigerians Paid ₦2.23tn in Ransom Over 12 Months – NBS
The National Bureau of Statistics revealed that Nigerians paid ₦2.23 trillion in ransoms over a year, with 65% of victims shelling out an average of ₦2.67 million. Rural areas bore the brunt of crime, with 27 million cases recorded, and reporting rates remained dismally low.
Implications:
This report underscores a chilling reality: Nigeria’s security apparatus has failed its citizens. With families forced to pay staggering sums to secure loved ones, the government’s inability to provide safety stands as a national disgrace. This is not governance—it is abandonment, leaving millions vulnerable to unchecked criminality.
Defence, Education, Health Dominate Tinubu’s ₦47.9tn 2025 ‘Resurrection Budget’
President Tinubu unveiled an ambitious ₦47.9 trillion budget for 2025, focusing on defence, health, and education. With a projected deficit of ₦13 trillion and ₦15.81 trillion earmarked for debt servicing, the budget seeks to restore economic stability and promote growth.
Implications:
While the budget appears visionary, its sustainability raises questions. Can a nation burdened with debt and economic struggles afford such ambition? Nigerians need more than lofty promises—they need clear, actionable steps that directly improve their lives. Without disciplined execution, the “Resurrection Budget” risks becoming another aspirational document with little real-world impact.
Final Thoughts
The events of the week highlight a nation at crossroads, grappling with leadership crises, economic strain, and systemic failures. While political consultations and ambitious plans signal movement, the question remains: will these efforts translate into meaningful change for Nigerians?