Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has criticised Peter Obi over his recent comments on Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, accusing him of downplaying the sacrifices of NADECO activists.
Obi had sparked reactions after stating: “General Sani Abacha, once presumed face of oppression, will be remembered as seemingly more democratic and more respectful of human rights than the so-called champions of activism from the NADECO days. Power indeed reveals character.”
The remark, which suggested that the late military ruler Sani Abacha could be seen as more democratic than members of NADECO, triggered widespread backlash.
Responding via X, Fani-Kayode described Obi’s statement as deeply offensive to those who fought against military rule.
“You have totally and completely lost your mind and this post of yours will go down in infamy as the most consequential one you ever made. What you have written today is way beyond politics and you have assaulted the senses and wounded the sensitivities of all those who lost their lives, liberty and loved ones during the struggle against fascism, dictatorship and military rule,” he said.
He also accused Obi of trivialising the sacrifices made during the June 12 struggle.
“To mock the memory of those that died fighting for democracy in the June 12 struggle and sacrificed their lives and liberty as members of NADECO in this way is unacceptable and unforgivable. Simply put, it is despicable,” Fani-Kayode stated.
Issuing a strong warning about Obi’s political future, he added: “For this reason alone you stand accursed before the world, you shall never become President of our nation and, as from today, your dwindling star shall be totally eclipsed and fade away until it is no more.”
The exchange is the latest in reactions following the controversy surrounding INEC’s decision on the ADC leadership dispute, which continues to generate heated debate across Nigeria’s political space.