In a recent interview, former senator and civil society activist Shehu Sani expressed his concerns about President Muhammadu Buhari's last-minute engagements and their potential impact on the incoming administration led by President-elect Bola Tinubu. Sani criticized President Buhari's handling of Nigeria's security challenges, suggesting that the country has regressed under his leadership.
Sani highlighted the toxic comments made by the spokespersons representing President-elect Tinubu and expressed shock at their lack of good intentions towards political opponents and those with differing opinions. He warned that such behavior could set a troubling precedent for the incoming administration.
According to Sani, President-elect Tinubu will face numerous challenges upon assuming office. These challenges include a deeply divided country along ethnic and regional lines, a staggering domestic and foreign debt of 77 trillion naira, widespread poverty with 133 million poor Nigerians, incomplete projects, and unresolved security issues. Sani emphasized that Boko Haram and other terrorist groups are still active, and kidnapping remains a significant concern.
Furthermore, Sani raised alarm over the increasing borrowing by the current administration, including the approval of over 30 billion dollars in foreign loans by the National Assembly. He urged transparency in disclosing how borrowed funds were used and stressed the need to address critical issues such as security, the economy, education, and infrastructure.
Sani called on the incoming administration to be honest with Nigerians about the true state of affairs and to consider establishing a committee or panel to probe the actions, loans, and projects of the current administration. He warned that failure to address these issues openly could have severe consequences for the incoming administration.
As President Buhari prepares to step down after eight years in office, the country faces a challenging transition. Sani's remarks serve as a reminder of the pressing issues that the new administration must tackle and the importance of transparency and accountability in leading Nigeria towards a brighter future.