ABUJA, NIGERIA – With just two months left in President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term, the Nigerian presidency believes that, like former President Goodluck Jonathan, Nigerians will miss Buhari once he leaves office.
Garba Shehu, the senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, expressed his thoughts in an interview with Channels Television on Monday, March 27, 2023.
Shehu lamented the criticism directed at President Buhari, asserting that leaders are not loved while in office. He compared Buhari’s situation to Jonathan’s, who was heavily criticised during his tenure but has since become a favourite of many Nigerians. Shehu predicts a similar shift in sentiment will occur after Buhari’s term ends.
Regarding the current administration’s cashless policy, Shehu stated that it is both desirable and irreversible. He emphasized that “cashless is the way forward for Nigeria because cashless nations and, in fact, all advanced nations of the world have gone cashless.”
However, Buhari’s tenure has been marred by numerous issues, including human rights abuses, poor economic management, multiple recessions, a controversial naira note redesign, terrorism and insecurity, a downgrade of Nigeria’s international standing, and the shambolic 2023 elections. These factors will likely play a significant role in shaping Nigerians’ long-term perceptions of his administration.
Buhari’s regime has been criticised for poor handling of the economy, leading to multiple recessions and a struggling currency. The recent naira note redesign has also been met with scepticism, with many Nigerians questioning its necessity and effectiveness.
Furthermore, insecurity has been a major issue under Buhari’s watch as the nation has grappled with terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings.
The 2023 elections have been another area of concern, with allegations of rigging and electoral malpractice casting a shadow over the democratic process. The election has been rated as the worst in the 4th Republic.
While the Nigerian presidency remains optimistic about Buhari’s legacy and the eventual shift in public sentiment, it is crucial to consider the numerous challenges that have arisen during his administration. Only time will tell whether Nigerians will yearn for Buhari’s return or remember his tenure for its shortcomings.
