Obasanjo Says Most Nigerians Pursue Public Offices For Personal And Crony Enrichment

Obasanjo Says Most Nigerians Pursue Public Offices For Personal And Crony Enrichment

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized many Nigerians who seek public office primarily to enrich themselves and their cronies, leaving the country worse off. In his new book, Nigeria: Past and Future, he highlighted the behavior of leaders at both federal and state levels, labeling them as ill-prepared, self-centered, and corrupt…….READ MORE

Obasanjo pointed out that such leaders often amass large debts through their businesses before taking office, only to miraculously clear these debts shortly after assuming public office, raising questions about the source of the funds. He also criticized the corruption prevalent in government, citing examples of leaders who exploit state resources for personal gain, leaving little for the welfare of the people.

He also expressed concern about recent government projects, such as the N15.6 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and a new official residence for the Vice President, criticizing both as wasteful and examples of misplaced priorities in a time of economic hardship.

Further, Obasanjo urged Nigeria to reconsider its adoption of Western liberal democracy, suggesting that the country should explore a model more in tune with its African heritage, which he described as “Afrodemocracy.” He argued that such a system would better reflect the needs and culture of African societies and address the shortcomings of Western models in the Nigerian context.