Sowore slams Abdulsalami over Indian hospital advert as leadership failure

On September 30, 2026, presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore reacted to a trending video showing former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.) featured in an advertisement for an Indian hospital where he reportedly underwent knee surgery. Sowore denounced the clip as a "tragic indictment of failed leadership," arguing that Nigerian leaders who had the chance to build a world-class health system continue to seek treatment overseas. He said Abdulsalami failed to develop Nigeria's healthcare during his 1998-1999 tenure and now depends on foreign medical institutions in old age.

The video, which circulated on social media, has reignited debates about medical tourism among Nigerian political leaders and public officials—a longstanding issue that has drawn criticism from citizens and civil society groups. Abdulsalami himself has previously received medical treatment abroad for a knee-related condition, underscoring the pattern Sowore highlighted.

Sowore's remarks place the spotlight on the gap between Nigeria's health-care promises and the reality of elite medical travel. Will the renewed public pressure prompt concrete investments in local hospitals, stricter rules on officials' overseas treatment, or stronger accountability for leaders who neglect the sector they once led?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/30/sowore-knocks-abdulsalami-over-appearance-in-indian-hospital-advert/