Former President Obasanjo’s Warning: A Nation on the Brink
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has issued a stark warning about the growing discontent among Nigerian youths, attributing it to the country’s prolonged maladministration. He argues that unless the current leadership adjusts its course, a revolution fueled by the frustrations of a disenfranchised youth population is inevitable. Obasanjo’s concerns, detailed in his book "Nigeria: Past and Future," highlight the deep-seated issues plaguing the nation, including mismanagement of resources, pervasive corruption, and ineffective leadership. He stresses that the current trajectory of governance, marked by impunity and a disregard for the well-being of the people, is akin to sitting on a ticking time bomb.
Obasanjo’s critique extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, encompassing a broader African context. He observes a continent-wide trend of assertive younger populations increasingly intolerant of abuses of power and demanding good governance. This growing dissatisfaction, he warns, could escalate into a destructive pandemic if left unaddressed. He emphasizes the urgent need for a system of governance tailored to the specific needs and context of African nations, one that prioritizes righteousness, integrity, accountability, and inclusivity. Ignoring the warning signs, he cautions, is akin to dancing while one’s trousers are on fire.
The former president’s analysis delves into the erosion of traditional institutions, particularly the chieftaincy system. He laments the bastardization of traditional rulership, citing the proliferation of unqualified individuals assuming these roles – individuals involved in criminal activities, drug addiction, and even electoral malpractice. Obasanjo calls for a moral re-armament within the traditional leadership, emphasizing the need to restore the dignity, honor, and respect associated with these positions. He envisions a revitalized chieftaincy system that contributes to national development rather than hindering it.
Obasanjo’s assessment also focuses on the challenges facing the Nigerian military, particularly its protracted struggle against Boko Haram. He argues that the military’s efforts, spanning nearly two decades, have been hampered by internal issues such as banditry, kidnapping, and farmer-herder clashes, as well as external threats from groups like ISWAT, ISIS, and Al-Qaeda. He points to corruption within the government as a significant contributing factor, alleging that officials have procured inferior equipment for the army, jeopardizing the lives of soldiers on the front lines.
Furthermore, Obasanjo criticizes former President Muhammadu Buhari’s alleged selective approach to combating criminal groups, suggesting that favoritism towards certain groups exacerbated the nation’s security challenges. He cites accusations made by prominent figures like General T.Y. Danjuma, alleging that the military’s engagement with criminal elements was not even-handed, undermining efforts to establish peace and security. Obasanjo calls for specialized training and equipment for the military to effectively combat these complex threats while emphasizing the importance of their commitment to upholding the nation’s territorial integrity and resisting any temptation towards unconstitutional actions.
Obasanjo concludes with a call for honesty and self-reflection, urging leaders to confront the reality of the situation and address the root causes of discontent. He emphasizes the need to prioritize the needs and aspirations of the youth, particularly in addressing unemployment and empowering them economically. Failure to heed these warnings, he argues, could lead to unpredictable and potentially devastating consequences. He underscores the urgency of peaceful change, echoing John F. Kennedy’s words about the inevitability of violent change when peaceful avenues are blocked. His call for a renewed focus on righteousness, integrity, and accountability serves as a stark reminder of the critical juncture Nigeria faces.
