Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, a former military president, has backed Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to succeed him in 2023.
When the Osinbajo Grassroots Organisation paid him a visit at his Hilltop mansion in Minna, Niger’s capital, on Thursday, Babangida endorsed the Vice President.
During his visit, the elder statesman urged Osinbajo to stay strong and run in the general elections in 2023.
He said, “I know the Vice-president very well. He is a good man. A man who has conviction about Nigeria; a man who can communicate with the country and inspire people. Such a man is a worthy person to work with. We need a good man to lead Nigeria.
“A man who has a passion for this country. Nigeria is a good country; the people of Nigeria are good. You must learn to understand people and constant discussion is key.
“I want to convey my best wishes to the Vice-president through you. And I want you to tell him to stay on the cause. I know it’s not easy but he has the conviction. I wish him the best.”
Babangida said he agreed to engage with the group because he believes the Vice President possesses the qualities of a good leader.
In reaction to the former military president’s comments, the organization’s National Convener, Ojo Foluso, stated that they are pleased with the IBB’s backing.
He said, “We came to consult the Oracle and the Oracle has spoken. General IBB is an oracle because he understands Nigeria.”
They’ll keep putting pressure on Osibanjo to show interest in the 2023 election, he said.
