Mixed reactions as Babangida hits President Buhari on corruption, says its worse now than during his regime

• Says those who worked with him were “saints… compared with what is happening under a democratic dispensation”

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Babaginda on Friday drew the sword on the federal government’s anti-corruption war, saying he fought corruption better than President Muhammadu Buhari and other democratic leaders as those who worked with him were “saints” compared to now.

Speaking during his interview with ARISE TV, General Babangida said that people who worked under him were saints compared to those currently in power.

Popularly called IBB and known with the nicknames – “Maradona” or “The Evil Genius,” General babangida was Nigeria’s military President from August 27, 1985 to August 27, 1993.

Asked if he agrees that corruption thrived under his administration, IBB said: “You can’t compare it with the facts on the ground now. From what I read, from analysis, I think we are saints when compared with what is happening under a democratic dispensation.

“I sacked a governor for stealing or misappropriating less than N313,000 but today, those who have stolen billions and are in court are parade themselves on the streets. So who is better at fighting corruption?”

But his comments elicited mixed reactions from Nigerians who commented on social media especially Twitter.

For those who disagreed with his comment, like Tunde Ayankoya, “For the records, IBB legitimized corruption in Nigeria.”

Another Twitter user, Chris Ngonadi said, “When he is not locked up, why will he also not run his mouth. I don’t blame him for being garrulous.”

But for those who support his claim, he hit the nail on the head.

A responder by the name Danielmechi said, “There was no terrorism under IBB and competent persons were hired to run the affairs of the state. Nepotism was equally less then.”