Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has strongly criticized Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, over his comments questioning the necessity of the 2012 subsidy protests against the administration of then-President Goodluck Jonathan.
Obi, responding to critics accusing him of tarnishing Nigeria’s image abroad, raised the issue of protests during the Jonathan administration over fuel and food price hikes. He questioned why those who protested back then are not speaking out against similar price increases under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Obi pointed out that during Jonathan’s time, increases in fuel prices, the exchange rate, and food prices were more manageable compared to the current situation.
However, Sowore, who actively participated in the 2012 protests, fired back at Obi, accusing the former governor of Anambra State of being “questionably dishonest.” Sowore argued that Obi’s stance suggested that the 2012 protests were unnecessary, given his role as an economic adviser during Jonathan’s tenure. The activist also alleged that Obi’s bank, Fidelity Bank, was involved in assisting former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke in money laundering activities.
Sowore tweeted, “If Obi believes protests were unwarranted under Jonathan, why should Tinubu’s handlers not adopt the same view, especially when Nigerians are complaining about his economic policies?” He further criticized Obi for not leading any protests against Tinubu’s administration and accused him of misleading Nigerians who do not align with his political agenda.
Sowore’s remarks underscore the ongoing tension over economic policies and the role of protests in holding leaders accountable.
Source: Swifteradio.com
