Barau Jibrin Challenges Osinbajo on Nigeria's Economy

During a public lecture titled “Democracy and Development: Rethinking the Leadership Question” in Yola, Adamawa state, Senator Barau Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate, responded to former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo's concerns regarding Nigeria's economy and democratic governance. Osinbajo, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2023, expressed worries about the state of democracy in Africa, citing Afrobarometer surveys that indicated widespread dissatisfaction with democratic institutions and economic conditions.

He noted that 64 percent of Africans preferred democracy, yet only 38 percent were satisfied with its implementation. Osinbajo highlighted issues such as economic hardship, rising living costs, and declining youth participation in politics.

In his response, Barau acknowledged Osinbajo's points but argued that the Tinubu administration was actively addressing these challenges and that communication gaps between the government and citizens contributed to the negative perceptions.