2023: Don’t elect someone older than me as president, IBB cautions Nigerians

Former military ruler, Ibrahim Babangida, has cautioned Nigerians to be mindful of the next president they will elect as President Muhammadu Buhari bows out next year.

Mr Babangida who is widely connected to politicians gave the caution on Saturday while granting an interview to Daily Trust.

Asked about his ideal candidate for the top job he said the person must be someone not older than him, among other qualities.

“…as long as he is a Nigerian; he is a politician, he is not old like I am; he is very conversant with the country, he communicates, he is a very good communicator,” the former dictator answered. “He must have somebody he knows in every part of the country. It is not a tall order.

“You could limit it to states, you could limit it to local governments even to the wards if you can but somebody such that once you hear the name, it is somebody you will say, yes, I have heard that name before either in the country or in his profession; if he is a doctor, a journalist or whatever, all areas, we have heard the name before; okay then I will make an effort to know more about him,” Mr Babangida added.

Already, he is reported to have endorsed the candidature of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who is yet to publicly declare interest in the presidential race as at press time.