A significant political dispute has emerged regarding the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari’s stance on his then-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo’s presidential ambition in 2022. Babafemi Ojudu, a former Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of the Vice President, has vehemently countered claims made in a recent biography of Buhari, asserting that the former president not only supported Osinbajo’s bid but also considered him “by far the best person for the job.” This revelation directly challenges the narrative presented by Charles Omole, author of ‘From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’.

Ojudu, who served closely within the presidency, stated publicly that Professor Osinbajo engaged in direct, personal discussions with President Buhari on no fewer than four separate occasions concerning his aspiration to succeed him. According to Ojudu, during these critical meetings, President Buhari consistently expressed “clear, unequivocal support” for Osinbajo’s ambition. This account paints a starkly different picture from the one depicted in Omole’s biography, which suggests a distant and unsupportive relationship.

The former aide detailed that at no point, either explicitly or implicitly, did President Buhari suggest that Professor Osinbajo should withdraw from the contest. Furthermore, Ojudu emphasised that Buhari never indicated a preference for Osinbajo to defer to, step aside for, or subordinate his ambition to any other aspirant, including the individual who eventually became the party’s nominee, current President Bola Tinubu. This clarification directly addresses the political dynamics of the 2022 All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primaries.

Ojudu recounted the progression of these discussions, noting that on the first occasion, President Buhari advised his Vice President to carefully consider the prospects of a presidential bid. Crucially, Buhari reportedly assured Osinbajo that he would support whatever decision he ultimately made. By the third discussion, Ojudu claims, President Buhari’s endorsement grew even stronger, with him plainly stating that, in his considered judgment, Professor Osinbajo was “by far the best person for the job.”

These assertions from Ojudu stand in direct opposition to the claims within Charles Omole’s biography. The book, ‘From Soldier to Statesman’, posits that Buhari refused to endorse Osinbajo’s ambition in 2022, primarily because he allegedly “never knew him.” Omole’s account quotes Buhari as stating, “I don’t know Osinbajo from anywhere; I met him only through Tinubu,” suggesting a lack of personal connection that would preclude an endorsement.

The biography further claims that President Buhari remained aloof and detached regarding Osinbajo’s decision to contest against Bola Tinubu, given their long-standing political affiliation. This portrayal suggests a passive or even indifferent stance from the former president, contrasting sharply with Ojudu’s depiction of active encouragement and strong personal endorsement. The conflicting narratives raise questions about the internal dynamics of the Buhari presidency and the true extent of political allegiances during a crucial transition period.

The revelations from both Ojudu and Omole highlight the complexities of political succession within Nigeria’s ruling party and the enduring impact of a president’s endorsements, or lack thereof. Such posthumous accounts often shape public perception of historical events and the legacies of key political figures. The dispute underscores the challenge of crafting definitive historical narratives, especially when relying on varying perspectives from individuals close to power.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the discourse surrounding the 2022 presidential primary remains a significant point of interest. Ojudu’s public statement, intended to correct what he perceives as historical inaccuracies, adds another layer to the understanding of the interactions between President Buhari and his then-deputy. These divergent accounts invite further scrutiny into the events leading up to the nomination of the APC’s presidential candidate.

The implications of these conflicting narratives extend beyond mere historical record. They touch upon the perceived integrity of political figures and the credibility of biographical works. For many, President Buhari’s true sentiments regarding his successor held considerable weight, and the ongoing debate reflects a desire for clarity on the political machinations of that pivotal period.

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Keywords: Buhari Osinbajo support, Yemi Osinbajo presidential ambition, Muhammadu Buhari legacy, Nigerian presidential election 2022, Babafemi Ojudu, Charles Omole biography, Bola Tinubu, political endorsements Nigeria