Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has expressed his concern that Nigeria is in a worse state today compared to the late ’80s and early ’90s. Obi shared this viewpoint on X after attending the launch of A Journey in Service, an autobiography by Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), Nigeria’s military president from 1985 to 1993, which took place in Abuja on Thursday, February 20.
During the event, Obi praised IBB for his contributions to Nigeria’s economy, particularly highlighting the former president’s significant role in the development of the nation’s financial sector. Obi wrote:
“IBB’s contributions to Nigeria’s economy and his strong support for entrepreneurship and private sector growth remain immeasurable.
Under his leadership, Nigeria witnessed substantial growth, particularly in the financial sector. He played a key role in fostering a united and equitable Nigeria, and economic landscape, ensuring policies that strengthened national cohesion and economic development.
Documenting such experiences is a welcome development, as it allows us to learn from those who have served and left a lasting impact on the nation. I look forward to reading this book, which undoubtedly holds valuable lessons. As someone committed to continuous learning, I will always align myself with knowledge drawn from documented experiences and historical records as well as contributing to the legacy library.”
Obi also shared two key takeaways from IBB’s keynote address and his comment on the 1993 election:
- The first takeaway was the keynote speaker’s notable French quotation, “Rien n’a changé” meaning “Nothing much has changed.” Obi pointed out that, using contemporary nations as a benchmark, Nigeria is now worse off compared to the era when IBB was in office. In 1992, countries like Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, and Ghana were in the same low Human Development Index (HDI) category as Nigeria. However, today, these nations have advanced to medium and high HDI levels, while Nigeria remains in the low HDI category, having either stagnated or declined.
- The second takeaway was the keynote speaker’s comment about Ghana’s consistent democracy over the past 30 years. Ghana has had leadership transitions that genuinely reflect the people’s votes, unlike Nigeria, where electoral outcomes often fail to reflect the people’s will. Obi highlighted that in Ghana, even ruling party candidates have conceded defeat, demonstrating respect for democracy.
One of the most profound moments of the event, according to Obi, was IBB’s admission that Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12 election. Obi viewed this acknowledgment as a step toward national healing, unity, and progress for Nigeria.
Obi expressed hope that, one day, other key figures in Nigeria’s democracy will find the courage to recognize the true winners of past elections, allowing the nation to tell its story with honesty and reflection.
“A New Nigeria is POssible!” Obi concluded.
