Debate Sparks as Nigerian Presidency Claims Buhari Will Leave Country Better Than He Found It

In a recent statement, the Nigerian Presidency has lauded President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, claiming that he will leave the country in a better state than he found it in 2015, particularly in terms of security and the economy. This assertion has sparked heated debates, as critics have vehemently opposed the notion and accused the President of gross incompetence and poor governance.

Despite these criticisms, the Presidency has defended Buhari on his alleged lopsided appointments of security heads during his eight-year tenure, stating that such appointments cannot be subject to ethnic balancing or federal character. Critics have accused Buhari of prioritizing nepotism and favoritism over competence and respect for the federal character, a core tenet of Nigeria's federalism.

Many Nigerians believe that the country has regressed under Buhari's leadership, citing widespread insecurity, corruption, economic decline, and a sharp increase in ethnic tensions. The administration's much-touted anti-corruption campaign has been criticized as selective and insufficient, with few high-profile convictions and allegations of bias against opposition politicians.

The country's economy, which was already struggling before Buhari took office, has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and falling oil prices. Nigeria, the largest oil-producing nation in Africa, relies heavily on crude oil exports to fund its budget, making it vulnerable to global price fluctuations. The government's attempts to diversify the economy and attract foreign investment have been largely unsuccessful, leading to high inflation, rising unemployment, and widespread poverty.

Buhari's appointment of security heads, particularly from his own ethnic and religious group, has also come under scrutiny. Many Nigerians believe that such appointments have contributed to the growing insecurity in the country, particularly in the northeast, where Boko Haram and other terrorist groups have carried out deadly attacks for over a decade.

With Buhari set to exit office next month after completing two terms, the debate over his legacy continues to rage on. While his supporters credit him with making progress on issues such as corruption and security, his critics argue that he has failed to deliver on his promises and that his administration has left the country worse off than when he took office.