Presidency Strikes At Obasanjo, Calls Him ‘Grandfather OF Hypocrisy’ And ‘Self-Styled Kingmaker

During the birthday colloquium of former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, Obasanjo criticized Tinubu’s actions, stating, “Democracy is not about power grabbing illegally and telling victims to go to court,” and condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

In response, Olusegun Dada, Special Assistant to Tinubu on Social Media, called Obasanjo the “grandfather of hypocrisy” in Nigeria. He accused Obasanjo of transforming into a kingmaker and demigod during his second term in office (2003-2004).

Dada’s statement read, “Obasanjo is attempting to whitewash his poor democratic record by trying to absolve himself of blame for Nigeria’s current democratic issues. It is surprising for anyone, especially those who lived through Obasanjo’s presidency from 1999-2007, to hear him preach about democracy not being about power grabs.”

Dada further pointed out Obasanjo’s actions during his tenure, noting that he had turned himself into a kingmaker and demigod, silencing any opposition. He highlighted several controversial events during Obasanjo’s administration, including alleged electoral manipulations, forced resignations, impeachments, and an attempted third-term bid.

He also reminded Obasanjo of his own use of emergency powers, recalling that in 2004, Obasanjo declared a state of emergency in Plateau and Ekiti states, suspending governors and assemblies without facing criticism. Dada emphasized the irony of Obasanjo criticizing Tinubu for similar actions when he himself had engaged in such practices.