Heated Online Dispute: Kaduna Drone Strike Ignites Debate on Failures of Tinubu, Buhari Among Supporters

In a heated online exchange, supporters of President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari are at odds over who bears the blame for the tragic killing of civilians by a military drone in Kaduna. The incident occurred during the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday in Tundun Biri community, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Nigerians on X, formerly Twitter, expressed outrage at the indiscriminate killing of citizens, laying blame on Buhari’s eight-year administration for the prevalence of bombings and civilian casualties orchestrated by the Nigerian Army and other security agents.

Recall that the military, on Sunday, targeted Muslims commemorating Maulid Nabiyy, resulting in numerous casualties.

Despite the mounting anger against the backdrop of security incidents under Buhari’s leadership, Bashir Ahmad, the former aide to the ex-President, condemned the Kaduna incident, insisting that such a tragedy cannot be dismissed as a mere mistake. Ahmad called for accountability and preventative measures.

In response, some online users criticized Ahmad’s shift in stance, with @Elkrosmediahub pointing out that similar misfires happened multiple times during Buhari’s administration without Ahmad’s public condemnation.

@chymaker, a Twitter user condemning the Kaduna attack, highlighted the ongoing narrative battle between supporters of Buhari and Tinubu. The debate has escalated, with claims that Buharists now depict Tinubu as worse than Buhari.

@Waspapping_ observed a shift in the discourse, noting that individuals who once defended Buhari’s policies are now critical. The sentiment is seen as a positive shift, despite the perceived hypocrisy.

@emmaikumeh expressed a harsh view, labeling Buhari as the “most useless president” in history, accusing him of setting the country back 50 years.

A complex perspective emerged from @Waspapping_, asserting that the disregard for Northern and Muslim lives, allegedly under Tinubu’s administration, originated during Buhari’s tenure. This sentiment suggests a continuous legacy of neglect.

Furthermore, @jibreelKhalil criticized the delayed vocalization of dissent, accusing individuals of regaining their sense of humanity only after Buhari left office. The commentary suggests a retrospective reckoning with the consequences of Buhari’s presidency.

The online clash reflects deep-seated grievances and shifting alliances, with supporters of both political figures engaging in a fierce battle of narratives following the tragic incident in Kaduna.