By Passman Akpos
A fresh political storm is brewing in Nigeria following a strongly worded rebuke of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his recent comments about former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, with traditional leaders from the Niger Delta demanding an immediate apology.
In a detailed statement issued by Hon. Chief Ibu Mizodome, Secretary General of the Obhan Emeyal Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs and former Chairman of Ogbia Local Government Area, Atiku’s remarks describing Jonathan as “a decent young man, but also inexperienced” were condemned as “condescending, derogatory, and a distortion of facts.”
The statement, which has begun to stir debate across political circles, insists that such comments from a figure of Atiku’s stature fall far below the expectations of an elder statesman. Mizodome argued that the former vice president’s position reflects a disconnect from Nigeria’s political history and governance realities.
“Jonathan Was Not Inexperienced”
Defending the legacy of the former president, the Niger Delta leader highlighted Jonathan’s extensive political journey prior to assuming office in 2010. According to him, Jonathan’s progression from Deputy Governor to Governor of Bayelsa State, and later Vice President and Acting President under Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, provided him with substantial governance experience.
He further noted Jonathan’s earlier administrative role at the Oil Mineral Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC), where he handled critical developmental and environmental challenges in the Niger Delta.
“To label such a man inexperienced is not only inaccurate but an insult to Nigerians’ collective intelligence,” the statement declared.
Economic Record Sparks Renewed Debate
The statement also reignited comparisons between past and present administrations, citing economic indicators during Jonathan’s tenure from 2010 to 2015. It pointed to GDP growth rates averaging 6–7 percent, Nigeria’s rebasing as Africa’s largest economy, and strong foreign direct investment inflows.
Other achievements listed include relative currency stability, moderate inflation, increased agricultural output, and progress in infrastructure. The statement emphasized that policies such as the Presidential Amnesty Programme helped stabilize the Niger Delta and reduce militancy.
Mizodome argued that these outcomes contrast sharply with the economic struggles experienced in later years, including rising inflation, unemployment, and currency depreciation.
Demand For Apology And Restraint
In a direct call to action, the Obhan Emeyal Council urged political stakeholders and traditional leaders in Adamawa State to caution Atiku against what it described as “unwarranted verbal attacks.”
The statement stressed that national unity requires respectful discourse, especially among former leaders, warning that such public criticisms risk deepening political divisions.
“Elder statesmen must speak with wisdom, restraint, and respect,” Mizodome stated, adding that leadership should be judged by verifiable records rather than “selective narratives.”
Political Undertones Intensify
The statement did not hold back in its criticism of Atiku’s political career, suggesting that the former vice president should reflect on his own role in Nigeria’s challenges rather than criticizing others. It controversially described his repeated presidential bids as unsuccessful, further escalating the tone of the ongoing exchange.
A Growing National Conversation
The clash has sparked wider conversations about leadership legacy, accountability, and the tone of political discourse in Nigeria. Analysts say the exchange reflects deeper tensions ahead of future political alignments, with regional loyalties and historical records once again coming under intense scrutiny.
As reactions continue to pour in, observers warn that how political leaders handle such disputes may shape public trust and national cohesion in the months ahead.
