A gathering of intellectual and political heavyweights in Abuja on Wednesday converged to discuss the state of the nation at the presentation of two books written by renowned Nigerian journalist, Ike Abonyi. The books, “The Bubbles of Nigeria’s Democracy: The Musings of a Nigerian Journalist” and “Wadata Wonders: Memoirs of a Partisan Journalist,” offer reflections on Nigeria’s political evolution and the author’s professional and partisan experiences.

Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Mohammad Hayatudeen, praised Abonyi for his work, stressing that Nigeria could be better than it is today. “Nigeria could be better than it is,” he said, emphasizing the need for improvement. Chief John Nnia Nwodo, former Ohanaeze President, delivered a keynote lecture titled “How Did We Get Here?”, providing a historical look at Nigeria’s past and the steady decay of the political system.

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, represented by Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, praised Abonyi for putting his thoughts together for posterity. Peter Obi, 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, expressed concern over growing poverty in the land. His presence at the event, attended by numerous PDP leaders, has sparked speculation about a possible political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

Former National Chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, bluntly declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is steering Nigeria towards liquidation. “Our country is gradually moving in the wrong direction to a place where you can say Nigeria is on the verge of liquidation, presided over by Bola Tinubu,” Secondus warned. He criticized the weakness of political institutions in Nigeria, citing the need for proper democratic structures.

The books were reviewed by Martins Oloja, a veteran journalist and former Managing Director of The Guardian Newspapers. Other notable attendees included former Governor of Rivers State, Chief Celestine Omehia, and serving Senator Austin Akobundu.