Prominent elder statesman, Dr. Chike Obidigbo, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rein in his aide, Bayo Onanuga, whose recent inflammatory comments pose a threat to Nigeria’s stability.
Obidigbo expressed deep concern over Onanuga’s incendiary public statements, which he believes could exacerbate the fragile unity within the nation and potentially ignite unnecessary conflict.
The president’s Special Assistant on Media and Strategy has made controversial claims, including blaming the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his supporters—known as the Obidients—for inciting a planned national protest against poor governance.
In a statement to the press on Sunday, Obidigbo criticized Onanuga for his failure to learn from Nigeria’s tumultuous political landscape, despite his extensive media experience. He emphasized that the presidential aide’s rhetoric is harmful and divisive.
“Many recall Onanuga’s contributions during the military regime, where the media employed guerrilla tactics to spotlight the oppressive governance of the time. Yet, having benefited from our democracy, he now seems to disregard the values of civility,” Obidigbo remarked.
He further noted that Onanuga’s approach has become one of belittling the Nigerian populace, as if he were leading a military dictatorship. “Instead of retracting his misguided statements, he continues to release remarks filled with animosity and contempt.”
Obidigbo condemned Onanuga’s recent attempt to associate the former Anambra Governor with the youth-led national protests as an imprudent assertion unworthy of a presidential adviser. He cautioned that stirring up conflict could lead to widespread repercussions that would affect everyone.
At a time when many multinational companies are exiting Nigeria due to economic instability, Obidigbo criticized Onanuga for celebrating the previous presidential election results rather than addressing the urgent needs of the citizens.
“Public officials like Onanuga must recognize that Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture and show empathy towards the citizens facing severe hardships, including rising insecurity and escalating living costs,” he asserted.
Obidigbo acknowledged that Onanuga is aware of Peter Obi’s commendable conduct and focus on economic issues, particularly in alleviating poverty and assisting the most vulnerable.
“Throughout the electoral campaign, Obi maintained dignified communication and prudently avoided the divisive rhetoric that has plagued Nigeria’s political scene,” he stated.
He condemned Onanuga’s attempts to incite hostility against the Igbo community, noting that this is not the first instance of such behavior from the seasoned journalist. Obidigbo urged President Tinubu to intervene and prevent Onanuga from perpetuating ethnic division.
Overall, Obidigbo stressed that Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic issues outweigh attempts to marginalize any group through nepotism and ethnic discrimination. He called for a commitment to justice and equity as essential steps toward national reconciliation and healing.
“While it may be tolerable to deny the Igbo political positions, tarnishing their reputation could ultimately lead to irreparable damage,” he warned.
