Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has lamented that Nigeria’s situation has deteriorated compared to the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Obi made this statement on Thursday after attending the launch of A Journey in Service, an autobiography by former military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), who led Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
Quoting a remark from the event’s keynote speaker, Obi wrote on X, “The first takeaway is the notable French quotation, Rien n’a changé, meaning ‘Nothing much has changed.’ In Nigeria’s case, we are worse off than we were during IBB’s era.”
Obi compared Nigeria’s development to its global peers, stating that when Babangida left office in 1992, countries like Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, and Ghana were also classified under the low Human Development Index (HDI) category—just like Nigeria.
“Today, however, these nations have progressed to medium and high HDI levels, while Nigeria remains in the low HDI category, either stagnating or declining,” he said.
IBB’s Contributions to Nigeria’s Economy
The former Anambra State governor commended Babangida for his contributions to the financial sector and his efforts in fostering national unity.
“Under his leadership, Nigeria witnessed substantial growth, particularly in the financial sector,” Obi noted.
“He played a key role in fostering a united and equitable Nigeria, implementing policies that strengthened national cohesion and economic development. Documenting such experiences is important, as it allows us to learn from those who have served and left a lasting impact on the nation.”
Obi emphasized his commitment to continuous learning, stating that he looks forward to reading Babangida’s book to gain insights from historical records and leadership experiences.
Nigeria vs. Ghana: Democratic Progress
According to Obi, Ghana has built a stable democratic system over the past 30 years, with leadership transitions that truly reflect the people’s votes.
“Unlike Nigeria, where electoral outcomes often fail to reflect the people’s will, Ghana has witnessed instances where ruling party candidates conceded defeat, respecting democracy in its truest form,” he argued.
IBB’s Admission on June 12 Election
Obi also praised Babangida for openly admitting that the June 12, 1993, presidential election was won by MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
“One of the most profound moments of the event was IBB’s admission that Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12 election,” he said.
“This acknowledgment is a step toward national healing, unity, and the progress of our nation.”
