The Presidency has dismissed remarks by former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, that democracy has collapsed in Nigeria.
Obi, speaking at the 60th birthday colloquium of former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, on Monday, had described Nigeria’s democratic system as having failed.
However, in a swift response, Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga criticized Obi’s statement as exaggerated and lacking logical foundation.
“How can a democracy that has strengthened over the past 26 years be said to have collapsed?” Onanuga queried.
He argued that Nigeria’s democratic institutions remain intact, pointing out that Obi himself continues to benefit from the freedoms guaranteed by democracy, including the right to criticize the government openly.
“If democracy had indeed collapsed, as Peter Obi claims, and we were under a system that suppresses opposition, he would not have been able to make such remarks publicly,” Onanuga stated.
He further urged the former governor to exercise restraint and avoid making statements that merely “play to the gallery.”
The Presidency’s response subtly indicates the ongoing political tensions and divergent perspectives on Nigeria’s democratic progress.
