Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has openly criticized former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for remarks Obi made about Nigeria during a recent talk at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.
In a statement released on Sunday, Sanwo-Olu accused Obi of making disparaging comments not only about the current Nigerian government but also about Nigeria itself. He stressed that Nigerians, especially public figures traveling abroad, have a responsibility to promote the country’s image rather than “de-market” it.
“He made unflattering remarks not just about the incumbent Nigerian government, but also about Nigeria itself.”
“When prominent Nigerians go overseas, they should project Nigeria positively. They do not have to do that for the government, but we all owe a duty to market Nigeria on the global stage rather than de-market her. That is what true patriotism is about.” Sanwo-Olu stated
The Lagos State Governor’s rebuke followed Obi’s sharp criticism of the current administration’s economic policies, which Obi claimed were worsening poverty levels across Nigeria.
However, Sanwo-Olu rose in defense of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that Tinubu had a strong track record in poverty alleviation during his time as Lagos State Governor from 1999 to 2007.
“Now, I find it somewhat ironic that a man like Mr. Obi, who did not build a single school or stand-alone hospital throughout his eight-year tenure as Governor of Anambra or sustainably provide credit facilities, would criticize the Government of Nigeria, which is actively doing that.” he said
Sanwo-Olu further highlighted Tinubu’s achievements, noting that over 200 schools were built and student loans were provided to more than 200,000 undergraduates during Tinubu’s tenure.
Questioning Obi’s Track Record
Sanwo-Olu did not stop at defending Tinubu but also took a direct shot at Obi’s record as Anambra State Governor. He cited data showing that poverty rates in Anambra actually worsened under Obi’s leadership.
“Before Peter Obi became Anambra Governor on Thursday, June 14, 2007, the poverty rate in Anambra was 41.4%. But after just two years in office, the poverty rate in Anambra jumped to 53.7%” Sanwo-Olu stated.
In contrast, he pointed out that Obi’s successor, Willie Obiano, managed to bring the poverty rate down dramatically—from nearly 60% to 14.8%—within five years after Obi left office.
The Lagos Governor concluded by questioning Obi’s moral authority to criticize the current national leadership:
“Mr. Obi contributed to the increase in poverty in Nigeria. Governor Tinubu, as he then was, was responsible for lifting millions out of poverty. So, who should criticize who?”
Featured Image: Arise News
