Barely few days after the emergence of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur as the new National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former president of Nigeria, has resigned as the chairman of the Board of Trustees, BoT, of the Party.
His sudden exit as the helmsman of BOT of the PDP, appeared to have jolted many political pundits, especially his close allies and supporters.
However, part of the reasons he adduced for his resignation were, to create more time for him to focus on his library; to make room for the increasing international demand on him, mentoring deserved persons and attracting foreign investment to Nigeria
Be that as it may, some political analysts were of the view that the Owu Chief had paid his dues and it was time for him to bow out.
There is also the speculation making the rounds, that he resigned before his tenure ends, to avoid being defeated by younger politicians, if he so desired to re-contest for the vacant post.
Again, the school of thought that considered his status and mediatory role in global matters, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and more recently Senegal, argued that to stay put as chairman of BoT of PDP may further diminish his global rating as a statesman. Moreso, when he successfully brokered peace in Senegal which eventually saw the incumbent president, Wada, defeated by an opposition candidate, to clinch the presidency.
His resignation points to the fact that it was orchestrated by the desire to leave the scene when the ovation is loudest as well as to remain an elder statesman, mentoring deserved younger generation. ###
Azuka Dibie
