A war of words has erupted in Nigeria’s political sphere after Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, publicly rebuked opposition leader Peter Obi over what he called “historically inaccurate” comparisons to global leaders.
Onanuga comment followed Obi’s pledge to serve only a single four-year term if elected in future polls, citing Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela as role models for this approach.
Obi in a statement issued on his social media handling on Sunday, Obi had declared: “My commitment to a single term is sacrosanct. I draw inspiration from great leaders like Abraham Lincoln, JFK, and Nelson Mandela who understood when to step aside.”
The former Anambra governor’s remarks appeared aimed at positioning himself as a reformer willing to break from Nigeria’s tradition of two-term presidencies. However, his historical references quickly came under scrutiny.
Obi’s remarks came in response to Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo’s controversial suggestion that politicians advocating single-term limits should undergo psychiatric evaluation.
Onanuga’s fact-chech
In a sharply worded reply posted on his verified social media account on Monday, Onanuga accused Mr Obi of fundamental historical errors.
“Peter Obi, the aspiring presidential candidate of the fledgling opposition party, must have flunked history in school.
“In justifying his so-called ‘sacrosanct’ pledge, he cited completely wrong examples”, Onanuga wrote.
The presidential aide proceeded to dismantle each comparison:
Abraham Lincoln: “Lincoln had finished his first term, won re-election, and been sworn in for a second term before his assassination in 1865. He never voluntarily stepped down after one term.”
John F. Kennedy: “JFK was assassinated in 1963 during his first term. Like Lincoln, he didn’t choose to leave office – he was tragically removed.”
Nelson Mandela: “While Mandela did serve only one term, he was 81 years old when he retired. This example might better suit Obi’s opposition rival, Atiku Abubakar, who will be 81 by 2027.”
Mr Onanuga’s statement included precise dates – noting Lincoln’s March 1861 inauguration, November 1864 re-election, and April 1865 assassination – to underscore his argument.
The exchange occurs amid growing debate about constitutional term limits in Nigeria. While the current system allows two four-year terms, some reformers advocate single longer terms to reduce campaign distractions.
Mr Onanuga particularly criticised what he called Mr Obi’s hypocrisy: “This comes from a politician who constantly challenges his followers to ‘verify’ claims, yet makes easily disproven historical assertions.”
As the 2027 elections approach, such fact-checking disputes may become more common, with opposition figures seeking reformist imagery and the ruling party aiming to portray them as unprepared for governance.
Mr Onanuga concluded his statement with a biting suggestion: “Perhaps Mr Obi should return to history class before making more pledges.”
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