The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has asserted that Nigeria’s socio-economic conditions are now worse than they were under former military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Speaking on Thursday at the launch of A Journey in Service, IBB’s autobiography, Obi reflected on the country’s decline. He referenced a French phrase from the keynote address, Rien n’a changé—meaning “Nothing much has changed”—but argued that in Nigeria’s case, “we are worse off than we were during IBB’s era.”
Obi compared Nigeria’s progress to that of its contemporaries, such as Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, and Ghana. He noted that while these nations have moved up to medium and high levels on the Human Development Index (HDI), Nigeria has remained stagnant in the low HDI category.
“When IBB left office in 1992, Nigeria and its peers, Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, and Ghana, were all in the low HDI category. Today, however, those nations have advanced, while Nigeria remains stuck in the low HDI bracket, either stagnant or declining,” Obi said.
Despite the economic challenges of the IBB era, Obi acknowledged Babangida’s contributions to Nigeria’s financial sector and efforts to foster national unity.
“Under his leadership, Nigeria experienced significant growth, particularly in the financial sector. He played a vital role in promoting national cohesion and economic development,” Obi remarked.
He also emphasized the importance of documenting historical experiences, stating that such records provide valuable lessons for national development.
“Sharing these experiences is crucial, as they allow us to learn from past leaders and their impact on the nation. I look forward to reading this book, which undoubtedly contains important lessons,” Obi added.
Highlighting Ghana’s political progress, Obi contrasted its stable democracy with Nigeria’s electoral challenges.
“Ghana has maintained a stable democracy for over three decades, with leadership transitions that truly reflect the people’s will. In contrast, Nigeria continues to struggle with electoral integrity, which has significantly contributed to our economic and social stagnation,” he stated.
Obi also commended IBB for acknowledging that Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election, describing it as a step toward national reconciliation and progress.
“One of the most profound moments of the event was IBB’s admission that Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12 election. This acknowledgment is a step toward healing, unity, and national progress,” Obi concluded.
