Nigerians urge Tinubu to adopt Obasanjo's tough stance on terror

Amidst Nigeria's persistent insecurity challenges, a growing chorus of voices is urging President Bola Tinubu to emulate the decisive, and at times severe, leadership style of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. This call comes as many Nigerians express frustration with the ongoing activities of terrorists and bandits across the country.

Obasanjo, who led Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, famously declared "no business as usual" and promised "leadership" rather than everything. His tenure was marked by a strong executive hand, with perceptions of strict control over state affairs. A stark example of this approach was the "Odi Massacre" in November 1999, where, following the killing of security personnel, Obasanjo ordered a military operation that resulted in widespread destruction in Odi community, Bayelsa State.

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When we came in 1999, we were absolutely clear on one thing. I said that there should be no business as usual and as you can see, there is no business as usual and I also said that I cannot promise to give Nigeria everything, but I can promise to give Nigeria leadership. Try me there and you will not find me wanting.

When questioned about the Odi incident, Obasanjo defended his actions, stating that the police and soldiers were instruments of law and order, and their deaths left him with no choice but to respond decisively. This action, though controversial, sent a strong message to those challenging state authority.

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When we came in 1999, we were absolutely clear on one thing. I said that there should be no business as usual and as you can see, there is no business as usual and I also said that I cannot promise to give Nigeria everything, but I can promise to give Nigeria leadership. Try me there and you will not find me wanting.

The current sentiment among some Nigerians, including those who might later criticize strict measures, is that President Tinubu should adopt a similar firm stance. They argue that allowing "miscreants and anarchy to flourish in the name of democracy" hinders national progress. The article notes the irony that even "emergency patriots" are now calling for Obasanjo-like actions, despite potential future objections to such strictness.

While the desire for security is paramount, the article implicitly raises the question of balance. The legacy of Obasanjo's decisive actions serves as a reference point, but the debate continues on how to combat insecurity effectively without compromising democratic principles and the rule of law.

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The police and soldiers were the instruments through which he maintained law and order, and that he sent policemen, and then soldiers to the area, and both were killed; as such what was he expected to do: to just fold his hands in acceptance?