Ayodele Fayose, former governor of Ekiti state, says the controversy over Isa Pantami, minister of communications and digital economy, has exposed the hypocrisy of the Buhari administration.
Some Nigerians and groups have asked President Muhammadu Buhari to sack Pantami over the minister’s past comments supporting Al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
But reacting, the presidency through Garba Shehu, presidential spokesman, said the government stands by the minister.
Fayose, in a statement on Sunday, said the controversy over Pantami has further exposed the government’s hypocrisy.
“The present situation of Nigeria, where the Presidency has become the employer and defender of Boko Haram terrorists and armed bandits is so appalling,” he said.
“The issue of Isa Pantami has further exposed the govt’s hypocrisy and complicity. So saddening and worrisome that spokesmen of the president were the ones going from one media house to another to defend someone who openly supported terrorists.”
The former governor said it is painful that Nigeria is being governed by people who were at one time nominated as Boko Haram negotiators.
He said because of the government’s inability to take decisive decision against terrorists, the country is no longer safe to live in.
“It is funny that today, if those running the affairs of the country are not telling us that armed bandits must be seen as innocent until proven guilty, they will be saying offence of forgery is more grievous than open declaration of support for terrorists,” he said.
“Because of their inability to take decisive actions against these terrorists that they appear to have sympathy for, Nigeria is no longer safe for anyone to live in.
“Our roads have been taking over by terrorists while Nigerians, including traditional rulers are now being abducted right inside their bedrooms.”
Fayose asked Nigerians to avoid travelling around the country and to leave isolated areas.
“It is therefore my counsel to Nigerians that they should stay in their domains at this period and avoid travelling around the country,” he said.
“Those staying in isolated areas should also endeavor to move to where there are more people.
“It is my prayer that God will restore peace and normalcy to our country.”
