Baba-Ahmed Responds to Soyinka’s Criticism of Peter Obi

 

Former Vice Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Yusuf Baba-Ahmed, has strongly responded to Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka’s criticism of LP's presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Soyinka had previously stated that Obi was unfit to lead Nigeria, citing his failure to control his supporters’ online attacks against those with opposing views.

 

In an interview with Arise Television on Friday, Baba-Ahmed expressed his disapproval of Soyinka’s remarks, suggesting that while he could reveal information that could seriously damage Soyinka’s reputation, he chooses not to. He emphasized that intellectual prowess does not give Soyinka the right to insult others.

 

“Soyinka’s attempt to distract from the real issues is evident,” Baba-Ahmed remarked. “I will not engage in a tit-for-tat with him. The learned elder statesman is perhaps preemptively afraid of the positive changes Peter Obi could bring to Nigeria, fearing it might end the current trend of bad governance.”

 

Baba-Ahmed further criticized Soyinka for his past derogatory comments about late General Abacha, asserting that intellect does not justify disrespect. “Soyinka insulted Abacha, calling him daft, but Abacha was a soldier, not an academic. Soyinka has no right to belittle anyone.”

 

Baba-Ahmed urged to focus on more pressing issues rather than being distracted by Soyinka's comments. “Nobel Laureates should be respected by their people, but Soyinka continues to face backlash. It is his responsibility to maintain his dignity, not Peter Obi’s.” 

Concluding his remarks, Baba-Ahmed said, “I could say a few things to Wole Soyinka that could destroy him for good, but I wouldn’t say that.” This statement underscores his decision to rise above the conflict and not engage in personal attacks.