Presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has criticised former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), following a viral video showing the retired military leader featured in an advertisement for an Indian hospital where he reportedly underwent knee surgery.
The video, which has sparked reactions across social media, showed footage of Abdulsalami during his visit to the medical facility and was reportedly used by the hospital as part of its promotional campaign.
Reacting to the development, Sowore described the situation as a “tragic indictment of failed leadership,” arguing that Nigerian leaders who had opportunities to strengthen the country’s healthcare system continue to seek medical treatment abroad.
Sowore alleged that Abdulsalami, who served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1998 to 1999, failed to contribute to the establishment of a world-class healthcare system during his tenure and is now relying on foreign medical facilities for treatment in old age.
“Abdulsalami failed to help build a world-class healthcare system in Nigeria during his time in office but now relies on foreign medical institutions for treatment in old age,” Sowore said.
His comments have reignited debate over medical tourism among Nigeria’s political leaders and senior public officials, a longstanding issue that has attracted criticism from citizens, healthcare professionals and civil society organisations.
The controversy also comes amid persistent concerns over the state of Nigeria’s public healthcare infrastructure, with critics arguing that frequent overseas medical trips by political leaders reflect deeper weaknesses in the country’s healthcare system.
