In a recent statement, Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, has strongly criticized former President Olusegun Obasanjo and other critics for what he perceives as attempts to undermine the current government’s efforts to combat terrorism in Nigeria. Dare’s remarks come in response to growing concerns about rising insecurity and the effectiveness of the government’s strategies.
Dare’s statement, titled “Between Tinubu’s Capability and the Ignobility of Pseudo Statesmanship,” was shared via his X handle. He specifically addressed comments made by Obasanjo and other opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to security, particularly in light of recent terrorist attacks.
Obasanjo, speaking at an event in Jos, Plateau State, lamented the increasing violence in Nigeria and suggested that citizens have the right to seek foreign intervention if the government fails to protect them. He emphasized that insecurity affects all Nigerians, regardless of their background or profession.
In response, Dare labeled Obasanjo’s comments as “hypocritical and ignoble,” pointing out that the roots of Boko Haram can be traced back to Obasanjo’s own administration. He argued that suggesting Nigeria should rely on foreign powers for internal security is not a display of statesmanship but rather an act of capitulation. He urged Obasanjo to reflect on his past failures in addressing the early signs of terrorism during his presidency.
Dare defended the Tinubu administration’s approach to security, which he described as multifaceted, encompassing military action, intelligence operations, and community engagement. He warned that undermining the government’s efforts could embolden terrorist groups and called on all Nigerians to support the administration’s security strategies.
In his closing remarks, Dare reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to securing Nigeria and urged citizens to unite in support of the government’s initiatives, rather than engaging in what he termed “selective amnesia” regarding past security failures.
