Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has challenged Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, to take a bold step and lead his supporters in the planned protest, rather than just endorsing it from behind the scenes.
Onanuga argued that true leadership requires Obi to be at the forefront of the protest, guiding and curbing any potential excesses. He drew parallels with President Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari, who in the past, had openly led protests and demonstrations, showcasing their commitment to the causes they believed in.
Onanuga in a post on his X, emphasized that Obi should follow suit, rather than playing a “master puppeteer” role, remotely controlling the protest. By leading the protest, Obi can demonstrate his leadership capabilities, ensure a peaceful and orderly demonstration, and show his supporters that he is willing to stand with them in their demands for change.
“Now that Peter Obi has come out to endorse the planned protest by his supporters, he should do what President Tinubu and former President Buhari did in the past, by coming out openly to lead the protesters. That is what leadership is about. Not playing the master puppeteer behind the scene. He should be in the forefront of the protest and help in curbing their possible excesses,” Bayo Onanuga said.
Onanuga’s challenge to Obi has sparked debate, with some agreeing that leadership requires bold action, while others argue that Obi’s endorsement is sufficient.
