In a recent response to claims made by former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, regarding the relationship between Bola Tinubu and former military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida, Tinubu’s spokesperson, Alhaji Onanuga, has strongly refuted the idea that Babangida tormented Tinubu during his political career.
Osinbajo, during a recent interview, had made comments implying that Babangida had played a role in making Tinubu’s political journey difficult. However, Onanuga, who has been an outspoken advocate for Tinubu, swiftly dismissed these claims, stating that the narrative was completely inaccurate.
"General Babangida did not torment Tinubu as stated by Osinbajo. In fact, this portrayal is misleading, and the Vice President got it wrong," Onanuga said in a statement issued to the press. "Tinubu and Babangida have had their differences in the past, like many political figures, but it is far from the truth to suggest that Babangida tormented him. Such comments are not only misleading but also serve to cloud the historical relationship between the two."
Onanuga further emphasized that Tinubu’s political career was built on hard work, resilience, and the support of the people, and he never relied on animosity or political torment as Osinbajo had implied. He also clarified that any political challenges Tinubu faced were a natural part of Nigeria’s complex political landscape, and not due to any particular persecution from Babangida or anyone else.
The controversy comes at a time when political tensions are high ahead of the upcoming general elections, with various political figures and their supporters sparring over their past histories and current alliances. Osinbajo’s comments, which were perceived as an attempt to highlight Tinubu’s struggles in the face of opposition, have sparked intense discussions among politicians, analysts, and the Nigerian public.
Despite the disagreement over this particular issue, Onanuga called for unity among political leaders, urging them to focus on the nation's development rather than getting caught up in historical grievances.
"As a country, we must look forward and work together to solve the pressing issues facing Nigeria today," he concluded. "Spreading division with inaccurate statements only distracts from the bigger picture."
The back-and-forth between Osinbajo and Onanuga is likely to fuel further debate in the lead-up to the elections, as Nigerians continue to discuss the dynamics between their political leaders and the challenges they have faced in the past.
