In a poignant reflection on the 2023 presidential election, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Muhammadu Buhari, has made a striking comparison. Ojudu expressed that failing to elect Professor Yemi Osinbajo as president in the last election is akin to missing the second coming of Nigeria’s revered political icon, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Ojudu, a staunch supporter of Osinbajo, shared his conviction about the former vice president’s potential in an interview with Edmund Obilo on the ‘State Affairs’ program. According to Ojudu, his endorsement of Osinbajo was based on a deep understanding of the latter’s political acumen, work ethic, and patriotism. He emphasized that Osinbajo’s broad knowledge, leadership qualities, and dedication to the country positioned him as the ideal candidate to lead Nigeria during the 2023 general election.
Reflecting on his support, Ojudu stated, “Osinbajo would have been good for this country. For me, it is like losing Awolowo for a second time because he was at Awolowo’s level in terms of capacity, ability, dedication, and commitment.” His remarks underscore the high regard in which Osinbajo is held by his supporters, with many believing that his leadership could have provided Nigeria with the stability and progress it needs.
Despite Osinbajo’s loss in the primary election to Bola Tinubu, Ojudu’s remarks highlight the deep sense of regret among some quarters that Nigeria missed out on the opportunity to have a leader with such potential. His comparison to Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s most respected leaders, underscores Osinbajo’s perceived ability to bring about meaningful change in the country’s political and economic landscape.