Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, for his efforts in addressing the security challenges that have plagued Nigeria for years.
Tinubu made this remark at the launch of a book titled “Working With Buhari”, written by Femi Adesina, who served as Buhari’s media adviser from 2015 to 2023.
Tinubu said that Buhari’s administration had faced various threats from terrorist groups, criminal gangs, and separatist movements, but had managed to contain them to some extent.
He cited the example of the attack on the United Nations building in Abuja in 2011, which was carried out by the Islamist Terrorist group Boko Haram, as one of the incidents that Buhari had to deal with.
“It is easy to forget that the United Nation building was attacked here in Abuja. It is easy to forget the role of arm forces, but if this book is carefully read and told in time of substance in our various homes, the job of security in every inch of our nation may not be completed, but you did a wonderful job,” Tinubu said.
However, Tinubu’s commendation of Buhari’s security record has been met with criticism and skepticism by some Nigerians, who have pointed out the high rate of violence and insecurity that still persists in the country.
According to data compiled by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, there were 59,279 fatalities from security related incidents between 29 May 2015 when Buhari assumed office and 18 May 2023.
The situation has not improved much since Tinubu took over on 29 May 2023. Between January and July 2022, at least 7,222 Nigerians were killed and 3,823 abducted as a result of 2,840 violent incidents.
Some of the major security problems that Tinubu has inherited from Buhari include the ongoing insurgency by Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province, in the north-east region; the rampant attacks and kidnappings by armed bandits in the north-west and central regions; the clashes between farmers and herders over land and resources.
Tinubu has promised to reform the security sector and equip the armed forces with better training, pay, and firepower. He has also vowed to address the underlying socio-economic factors that fuel insecurity, such as poverty, unemployment, corruption, and inequality.
However, many Nigerians are doubtful of Tinubu’s ability to deliver on his promises, given the complex and multifaceted nature of the security crisis. Some have also accused him of being insincere and hypocritical, as he was a close ally and supporter of Buhari, and had defended his policies and actions in the past.
The book launch was attended by several dignitaries, including former vice president Osinbajo, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, and others.
The book, which is a memoir of Adesina’s experience as Buhari’s spokesman, chronicles the achievements and challenges of Buhari’s eight-year tenure, and offers insights into his personality and leadership style.