Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has encouraged Nigerians to refrain from attributing the current challenges facing the country to President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that these issues were passed down.
In a press conference held at his office in Ikoyi, Lagos, George emphasized that the period of one year that the president has been in office is insufficient to address the country’s deep-rooted problems.
George explained that typically, the initial year of any administration is spent assessing the existing circumstances, highlighting that most of the challenges faced by the Tinubu administration were inherited from its predecessor, former President Muhammad Buhari, under whom he claimed Nigeria’s situation deteriorated.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s governance over the past 25 years of civil rule, the PDP leader lamented that the country almost collapsed, asserting that the eight-year tenure of former President Buhari was arguably the most dire in Nigeria’s history since independence in 1960.
He critiqued the lack of leadership during that era, expressing dismay that some individuals continue to defend the actions of that administration.
George underscored the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the current government’s approach and achievements within a year to better assess its performance.
Describing Nigeria as the Giant of Africa, George asserted that the country’s political landscape since its return to democracy in 1999 has subjected it to ridicule globally, bringing shame to patriots witnessing the unfolding events that push the nation’s boundaries.
Despite pointing out the current challenges, he stood by the belief that Tinubu should be granted the opportunity to showcase his capacity in resolving Nigeria’s issues and called for a joint effort from both leaders and citizens to restore the nation’s prestige among other countries.
George concluded by stating that Nigeria can realize its potential for positive change and regain its former glory if its citizens begin redefining their core values and address the existing anomalies hindering progress.