Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized the current state of leadership in Nigeria, stating that most individuals in positions of power should be in prison. Obasanjo made these remarks at his residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State while receiving six members of the House of Representatives who are co-sponsors of bills advocating for a single six-year presidential term, rotational presidency between the North and South, and rotation of governorship among the three senatorial districts of each state.
According to a report by Daily Trust, Obasanjo expressed concerns about the character and integrity of those leading the country. “Our main problem is ourselves, and until we take care of ourselves, it doesn’t matter if we have one term of four years, one term of six years, or one term of seven years—if it’s the same people with the same mentality and way of doing things, then nothing will change,” he said.
Obasanjo emphasized the need to rethink not just the system of governance but also the quality and character of the people who are elected to lead. “With all due respect, most of them should be behind bars; some should even be on the gallows, and that is the truth. If these are the people ruling us, then what do you expect?” he continued.
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He called for a more rigorous process in selecting leaders, focusing on their attributes, track records, and whether they serve as positive role models. Obasanjo stressed that these considerations are crucial if Nigeria is to see meaningful progress in governance.
