The Eleven Flaws of President Tinubu: A Critical Analysis

By George O Sylvester

President Tinubu’s administration has been marred by several controversies and criticisms since its inception. This article provides an in-depth examination of eleven flaws that have been identified in his leadership style and policies, which may potentially impact the effectiveness of his administration.

1. The Insignificant Vice President:
The role of Vice President Kashim Shettima in the administration has been rendered insignificant, with many questioning his continued relevance. The Muslim-Muslim ticket that was used to woo Northern votes has been exposed as a mere gimmick, leaving the North East region feeling betrayed. According to Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, “The Vice President’s role has been reduced to mere ceremonial functions, a far cry from the robust engagement we expected.”

2. The Weak National Chairman:
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s corruption allegations have continued to plague his tenure, despite his denials. The opposition has capitalized on these allegations, using them to attack the Federal Government. Governor Samuel Ortom noted, “Ganduje’s corruption allegations have damaged the APC’s reputation, and his continued stay as National Chairman is a liability.” Furthermore, Ganduje’s home state of Kano is now controlled by the opposition NNPP, led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

3. The Liability Senate President:
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has lost credibility due to his handling of the Senate, which has been criticized for being chaotic. His corruption allegations and sexual harassment charges have become synonymous with his name, leading many to question his character and humility. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege stated, “Akpabio’s leadership style has been divisive, and his handling of the Senate has been chaotic.”

4. The National Security Adviser’s Questionable Integrity:
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s threat to sue Najaatu Mohammad over corruption allegations against President Tinubu ended in embarrassment. His failure to follow through on his threat and subsequent denial of ever accusing the President of corruption have tarnished his integrity. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi noted, “Ribadu’s failure to take action against corruption allegations has raised questions about his credibility and integrity.”

5. The Minister of FCT’s Divisive Politics:
Minister of FCT Nwesome Wike’s appointment has been marked by controversy, with many questioning his suitability for the role. Wike, a former PDP member, played anti-party politics in Rivers State to support President Tinubu’s candidacy. Senator Ali Ndume stated, “Wike’s appointment has been a disaster, and his actions have further polarized the polity.”

6. The Buhari Camp’s Growing Discontent:
The politicians who supported President Tinubu’s candidacy, known as the Buhari camp, feel sidelined and are quietly regrouping to challenge the President. Former governor Nasir El-Rufai warned, “The Buhari camp feels betrayed, and their discontent may boil over into a full-blown crisis.”

7. Political Mercenaries:
Reno Omokri and Senator Shehu Sani, once vocal critics of President Tinubu, are now his vocal supporters. Their accusations against the President, ranging from Chicago controversies to drug trafficking allegations, have been conveniently forgotten. Senator Dino Melaye said, “Reno Omokri and Shehu Sani’s sudden U-turn is a classic case of political opportunism, driven by self-interest rather than principle.”

8. The Muslim-Muslim Ticket Mantra:
The Muslim-Muslim ticket mantra used to woo Northern votes has been exposed as a ruse. Northerners are poised to make fresh demands come 2027, which may not bode well for the APC-led government. Hon. Mohammed Monguno predicted, “The Muslim-Muslim ticket was a gimmick that has backfired, and the APC will pay the price in 2027.”

9. Nepotism in Appointments:
President Tinubu’s appointments have been criticized for favoring Yoruba elites, creating a perception that the President is building the Yoruba people above all other tribes in Nigeria. Forner Governor Ifeanyi Okowa noted, “The President’s appointments have been lopsided, favoring Yoruba elites at the expense of other regions.”

10. Seyi Tinubu’s Involvement in Underground Campaigns:
Seyi Tinubu’s involvement in underground campaigns is unlikely to yield positive results for the APC. This move exposes the President’s parental weakness, drawing parallels with the Abacha era. Seyi’s actions are disrupting Lagos’ political landscape, relying on financial influence rather than integrity. Senator Kabiru Gaya stated, “Seyi Tinubu’s actions are a reflection of the President’s weakness, and his reliance on financial influence rather than integrity will ultimately harm the APC.”

11. President Tinubu’s Shift in Leadership Style:
President Tinubu has transformed from a wise leader to a powerful one since taking office. He no longer values consultations, lobbying, and persuasions.”The President’s maiden speech was a clear indication of his disregard for democratic principles, and his unilateral decision-making style will lead to chaos.” – Hon. Kingsley Chinda

Federal Government Deploys 10,000 NSCDC Personnel to Protect Oil Pipelines in Niger Delta

In response to a series of explosions at oil installations in Rivers State, the Federal Government has deployed 10,000 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to prevent further attacks on critical national infrastructure. The deployment follows blasts that occurred between Sunday and Tuesday, escalating concerns over pipeline vandalism and economic sabotage.

Confirming the deployment on Wednesday, NSCDC spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, stated that the operatives were assigned to protect vital infrastructure, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where oil pipelines have been targeted.

“The NSCDC hereby warns against destruction and vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure across the Niger Delta as over 10,000 operatives have been deployed to collaborate with other security agencies to provide adequate peace and security of lives and property,” Babawale said.

Political Crisis in Rivers State

The security reinforcement comes amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule. In a national broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly. In their place, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.) was appointed as the state’s sole administrator for an initial six-month period.

The emergency declaration followed a charged political atmosphere that saw three explosions in two days. The attacks were reportedly linked to threats from Ijaw groups opposing moves to impeach Fubara, with the groups vowing to disrupt oil production if the governor was removed from office.

On Monday, a faction of the Rivers State Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule, loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike, presented a notice listing 19 infractions allegedly committed by Fubara, paving the way for impeachment proceedings.

Before this notice was served, an explosion rocked the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area, on Sunday. Security agents recovered a corpse at the scene, and a suspect was arrested in connection with the blast.

Security Agencies Intensify Operations

A staff member of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), identified as Ebikeme, disclosed that covert operations led to the arrest of the suspect.

“On Sunday, the 16th of March 2025, there was a blast on the TNP Pipeline Right of Way in Aluu – Zone 5. A suspected vandal was found dead at the site from the effects of the blast. Upon further investigation, another suspected vandal was apprehended and is currently in police custody while further investigations continue,” Ebikeme said.

Speaking on the deployment of NSCDC personnel, Babawale reiterated that the agency remains committed to safeguarding critical assets and preventing economic sabotage.

“The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has a statutory mandate as the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure. Commands across the federation have been placed on red alert to forestall acts of vandalism and destruction of government utilities,” Babawale stated.

He emphasized that the NSCDC is collaborating with other security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property in the region.

Military Presence Strengthens in Port Harcourt

Meanwhile, security presence has intensified in Port Harcourt, with more soldiers deployed to the Government House. Reports indicate that Governor Fubara vacated the premises on Wednesday, though his exact whereabouts remain unclear. It is uncertain whether he relocated to his private residence in Port Harcourt or returned to his hometown in Opobo.

Eyewitnesses confirmed seeing increased military activity, with three Armoured Personnel Carriers stationed at the entrance of the Government House. Strict security checks were also being conducted on individuals and vehicles entering the premises.

An aide to Fubara, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that soldiers were occupying the Government House.

“As I speak with you, more soldiers are entering the Government House. This afternoon, over 15 arrived, believed to be an advanced team of the Sole Administrator who is still expected to assume duties. This evening, more soldiers joined them,” the aide disclosed.

The political and security situation in Rivers State continues to develop as the Federal Government takes measures to restore stability and protect the country’s economic assets.

ABEOKUTA NORTH LG OVERHAULS REVENUE SYSTEM, SETS UP DIGITAL TRACKING

Abeokuta North Local Government has embarked on a comprehensive revenue reform aimed at boosting its financial base and ensuring accountability.

The Executive chairman of the local government Hon. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, announced this during a press conference held at the council secretariat on Monday.

While addressing the press, the chairman said upon assuming office, his administration discovered that the revenue base of the local government was significantly low and mismanaged.

To address this, he canceled all previous revenue collection contracts and set up a Revenue Monitoring Team (RMT), led by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Taiyelolu Egbeyemi.

“As of today, we have identified 67 revenue points within the local government, compared to the 10 or 15 revenue points we met on the ground,” Oyegbola-Sodipo revealed.

“We have deployed able and committed young men to monitor revenue collection, and we are now working towards scaling up our revenue drive across all identified points.”

The Chairman added that the local government is also introducing a digital revenue collection system to enhance efficiency and transparency adding that the system will officially commence on Wednesday in which all levies and taxes are paid digitally.

Providing an example of how this will work, the chairman explained that petrol stations in the local government were previously charged a flat rate, regardless of the number of pumps they had.

This, he noted, was unfair. “We have now introduced a pump-based levy system to ensure fairness. Starting Wednesday, we will begin capturing and onboarding all petrol stations into the digital system,” he said.

The chairman also said the new system will be extended to markets, with market women being properly identified and grouped into clusters.

Hon. Lanre Oyegbola Sodipo also highlighted plans to maximize local government assets, citing Ori-Omi, a local venue previously rented out for as low as ₦90,000 per event.

He described this as a gross abuse of government property and announced an immediate review of its management to increase revenue generation.

Furthermore, a Skills and Enterprise Development Center is being established within the council secretariat to support young entrepreneurs.

According to Oyegbola-Sodipo, a team of seven young professionals has worked for nearly nine weeks to develop a blueprint for the center.

“The center will provide a platform for young people to develop their innovations and grow their businesses,” he said.

Hon. Oyegbola-Sodipo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring a more transparent, accountable, and efficient local government.

His words” if you are unable to measure anything, then you’ll be unable to manage it, whatever you can’t measure, you cannot manage.

“Whatever you cannot inspect don’t expect, it is on this principle that we charge ourselves that we need to do a complete overhaul the process, the system, the architecture that drives our revenue in the local government.”

The chairman assured residents that these reforms will not only boost internally generated revenue (IGR) but also improve service delivery and attract more development projects to the local government.