Nigerian political commentator and academic Dr. Okafor Emmanuel (X handle: @DrOkaforEmmanu1) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of double standards and betrayal of southern Nigeria’s political interests. In a sharp rebuke posted on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Okafor criticized both Tinubu’s actions and his defenders, saying they are perpetuating “a continuity of impunity.”
“A southern president that illegally removed a democratically elected southern governor from office,” Dr. Okafor stated.
He was referring to the controversial removal of a Rivers State governor, widely believed to be a reference to past political conflicts where Tinubu-aligned interests allegedly influenced leadership changes through federal power and political pressure. The incident is seen by critics as a direct affront to democratic values and southern autonomy.
Dr. Okafor further accused Tinubu of supporting the ousting of former President Goodluck Jonathan, a southern Christian leader, in favor of northern candidate Muhammadu Buhari during the 2015 presidential election. Tinubu played a central role in forming the APC coalition that elevated Buhari to power, a move seen by many as a betrayal of the South-South geopolitical region.
“Shame on you if you say ‘if not PO, let BAT continue,’” Dr. Okafor wrote, referring to the growing sentiment that if Peter Obi doesn’t win in 2025, Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be allowed to continue in office.
“Imagine that old lawyer called Great Oracle advocating for continuity of impunity from BAT,” he added, criticizing a well-known pro-Tinubu analyst who continues to justify Tinubu’s presidency.
A Pattern of Political Suppression?
This isn’t the first time Tinubu has been accused of suppressing fellow southern leaders. Critics point to a pattern:
- Opposed President Olusegun Obasanjo, a fellow Yoruba and southern leader.
- Worked against Goodluck Jonathan, a southern president, in 2015 by backing Buhari.
- Allegedly influenced the removal of a southern governor in Rivers State.
Now claims it’s “the South’s turn” and calls for national unity behind his presidency.
Dr. Okafor’s statement aligns with rising calls for accountability and a reevaluation of political loyalty, especially as Nigeria heads toward the 2025 elections. Many are asking: shoul
