Dodging A Bullet: Why Nigerian Youth Should Be Thankful Obi Lost

The dream was enticing, a new Nigeria led by the competency and integrity of Peter Obi. After decades of misrule, Obi’s candidacy galvanized Nigerian youth hungry for change. But Obi’s electoral loss may have been a blessing in disguise as Nigeria descends into crisis.

Had Obi won, he would have inherited a hot mess – an economy racing toward collapse, worsening insecurity, ethnic tensions, and a bureaucracy steeped in corruption. Critics and opponents would have blamed Obi for problems long in the making. A presidency many hoped would uplift Nigeria may have instead tarnished Obi’s image.

The scale of Nigeria’s economic disaster is staggering – debt over N77 trillion, inflation near 21%, university lecturers on strike, and absurd fuel subsidies draining billions from critical investments. Obi’s prudent style may have clashed with federal technocrats willing to pile on more debt. With the economy crumbling, Obi’s “trim the fat” approach could be vilified.

Insecurity remains a clear and present danger, with Boko Haram’s insurgency active over a decade now. Criminal gangs terrorize communities while kidnappings for ransom have become a lucrative trade. Obi’s civilian background may have drawn criticism of weakness as bloodshed continued.

Nigeria’s diversity is often touted as a strength, yet ethnic and religious conflicts persist. Tensions between Muslim north and Christian south, herder-farmer clashes, Biafran separatism – Obi would have walked a political tightrope. As conflicts flared, he’d be an easy target.

Then there is corruption, Nigeria’s ubiquitous nemesis. Obi’s integrity would collide with kleptocratic federal culture. Entrenched bureaucrats would resist reform efforts. Obi’s anti-graft stance could be labeled as unrealistic or dictatorial amid pushback.

In essence, Obi was destined to disappoint youth given the sheer scale of Nigeria’s troubles. Their great hopes would have smashed against the rocks of reality. Instead of uplifting his image, the presidency could have shattered it.

Rather than cementing Obi as Nigeria’s savior, he may have been scapegoated for systemic dysfunction beyond his control. Youth would have condemned him, the same youth who exalted him just months ago.

While Obi’s loss stung, it may ultimately save both his reputation and the youth movement he inspired. As the true depth of Nigeria’s crisis becomes clear, we see just how herculean the cleanup task ahead is.

Perhaps providence protects Obi, preserving the possibility that he could still positively transform the country he loves at a more opportune time. For now, Nigerian youth avoids profound disillusionment. The fire of hope Obi lit remains dimmed but intact.

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