A former Special Adviser on Political Matters to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Babafemi Ojudu, has disputed claims in a new biography that late President Muhammadu Buhari opposed Osinbajo’s presidential bid in 2023. The biography, “Muhammadu Buhari: From Soldier to Statesman” by Dr. Charles Omole, alleges that Buhari withheld support from Osinbajo due to President Bola Tinubu’s involvement in the race. However, Ojudu described the book’s accounts as “mischievous” and based on “hearsay,” stating that Buhari expressed unequivocal support for Osinbajo on multiple occasions.
According to Ojudu, he was involved in high-level discussions between Buhari and Osinbajo from 2016 to 2022, during which the succession issue was discussed at least four times. Ojudu claimed that Buhari offered clear support each time, advising Osinbajo to reflect carefully on his prospects and assuring him that he would support whatever decision he took. By the third discussion, Buhari reportedly stated that Osinbajo was the best person for the job, citing continuity and stability as key factors.
Ojudu also noted that Buhari’s backing extended beyond private conversations, as he publicly commended Osinbajo’s campaigning efforts during a Federal Executive Council meeting. Additionally, at least three governors met with Buhari separately, and each time, he affirmed Osinbajo as the “best man for the job.” Ojudu criticized Omole’s methodology, accusing the author of failing to consult key figures involved and relying on “grievance and one-sided recollection.”
The controversy surrounding the biography has sparked debate about the events leading up to the 2023 presidential election. Ojudu’s account contradicts the claims made in the book, highlighting the importance of verifying information through primary sources. The dispute also raises questions about the role of biography in recording historical events and the need for authors to adhere to rigorous research standards.
The significance of this story lies in its implications for our understanding of the inner workings of the Buhari administration and the lead-up to the 2023 presidential election. As more information comes to light, it is essential to approach claims with a critical eye, considering multiple sources and evaluating the credibility of each account. By doing so, we can work towards a more accurate understanding of the events that shaped Nigeria’s political landscape.
