Ex-APC senators to Tinubu: It’s common to face allegations — Obama confronted same

One hundred and seven former senators of the All Progressives Congress (APC) say it is not uncommon for world leaders to grapple with allegations.

Basheer Lado, convener of the group and a former Kano senator, said this in an open letter to President Bola Tinubu on Sunday.

Tinubu is being accused of certificate forgery by Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last election.

Abubakar is challenging Tinubu’s victory at the February poll and the verdict of the election tribunal upholding the outcome of the vote.

In the letter, Lado said former US President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced a “place of birth” controversy and questions over educational qualifications respectively.

“It is not uncommon for world leaders or prominent figures to face challenges and allegations during their careers,” Lado said.

“The former US President Barack Obama, during his tenure faced unfounded allegations questioning his place of birth and citizenship, notably referred to as the ‘birther’ controversy.

“We draw important lessons from President Obama’s response to this challenge.

“Despite the baseless nature of the allegations, President Obama remained steadfast in his dedication to governing the United States.

“The Prime Minister of India faced allegations related to his educational qualifications during his tenure. His focus remained on governance and his commitment to India’s development.

“These examples from around the world illustrate that challenges and allegations are not uncommon in the lives of leaders, particularly during moments of responsibility.

“They also demonstrate the power of truth, the strength of character, and the resilience of leadership.

“We believe President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will do the same.”

The former senator said the group is firmly behind Tinubu and urged all Nigerians to do the same “as we trust that the truth will ultimately prevail”.