Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Nigerian public office holders, accusing many of seeking positions primarily for personal enrichment, to the detriment of the nation’s development.
In his newly released book, “Nigeria: Past and the Future,” Obasanjo highlights the self-serving motives of some leaders and their negative impact on the country.
Obasanjo, who recently celebrated his 88th birthday, unveiled this book alongside another titled “Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation” during a ceremony in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The event also featured a public lecture on slavery and colonization, delivered by Professor Eghosa Osaghae, Director General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs.
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In “Nigeria: Past and the Future,” Obasanjo reflects on the nation’s history and outlines a roadmap toward a more promising future.
He critiques the character and preparedness of many individuals who have held leadership positions, including governors, presidents, ministers, commissioners, and local government chairpersons.
According to him, a majority were ill-prepared, self-centered, and primarily focused on corruptly enriching themselves, leaving the nation in a state of poverty and underdevelopment.
He illustrates his point by recounting instances where governors, heavily indebted before assuming office, managed to repay substantial loans within two years without any legitimate business operations.
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Obasanjo suggests that such financial turnarounds raise questions about the sources of the funds, implying misappropriation of state resources.
The former president also condemns leaders who engage in deceptive practices concerning contract awards, agreements, treaties, borrowings, and the forward sale of national assets.
He asserts that such individuals are unfit for the positions they occupy and contribute to the nation’s challenges.