Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Germany, Femi Fani-Kayode, has criticised former presidential candidate Peter Obi over remarks he made regarding the National Democratic Coalition and the late military ruler Sani Abacha.
Obi had earlier made comments suggesting that Abacha, once widely regarded as authoritarian, could now be viewed as more respectful of democratic values than some individuals associated with the NADECO movement.
Responding, Fani-Kayode described Obi’s statement as an attempt to undermine the sacrifices of NADECO members, who played a significant role in resisting military rule during the 1990s.
He argued that while NADECO activists faced imprisonment, exile, and persecution, Obi was aligned with the Abacha administration during that period.
Fani-Kayode further referenced the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election by former military leader Ibrahim Babangida, describing it as a turning point that plunged the country into political instability.
He also mentioned the role of David Mark in the events surrounding that era, criticising his past statements and actions.
The former minister maintained that individuals who were not actively involved in the pro-democracy struggle should be cautious in commenting on that period, urging respect for those who fought for Nigeria’s return to civilian rule.
He concluded by warning against attempts to reinterpret historical events, emphasising that many who experienced the period firsthand remain witnesses to the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy.
