In the latest episode of the Mic On Podcast, Paul Ibe, the special adviser to former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, offered a critical assessment of the governance style under the Tinubu-led administration. His comments, particularly focused on the lack of innovative policy-making and the seemingly nonchalant approach to significant decisions like the removal of fuel subsidy, have sparked considerable debate nationwide. Ibe emphasized the government’s obligation to deliver on its mandate and make life easier for Nigerians, highlighting the growing discontent among citizens regarding the current state of affairs.
One of the most concerning points raised by Mr. Ibe was regarding the procurement process of the Lagos-Calabar expressway project, which he alleges did not follow due process. His assertion underscores the crucial need for transparency and accountability in government contracts, raising questions about potential irregularities that require public scrutiny. He stated,
“It’s not about what Atiku Abubakar thinks. It’s about what we all know.”
Also, Mr. Ibe addressed the departure of Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, from the PDP. He clarified that Atiku Abubakar did not force Obi’s exit; rather, it was influenced by factors such as Nyesom Wike’s promotion of the zoning of the presidency to the south, which frustrated the effort. According to Mr. Ibe, “(Nyesom) Wike was also instrumental in Obi’s exit because he advocated for the zoning of the presidency to the south. He thwarted that effort because he believed that if it was zoned to the south, not specifically the southeast, he would be in the best position to secure the (PDP) ticket.”
Although Mr. Ibe acknowledges that the party is not adrift, he points out that it has veered off course due to years of being out of government since 2015. Nonetheless, he stressed the importance of inclusivity in governance as a means to national unity and development. “We need to prioritize inclusivity in our governance. Inclusivity is key to national unity and development. Most importantly, we need to ensure that the most capable among us are given the opportunity to lead the rest of us.”
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