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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed a deep sense of urgency for Nigeria to rise to greatness, admitting that he is “getting close” to the departure lounge of life.
Speaking at the presentation of his latest book, “Nigeria: Past and Future”, Obasanjo offered a sweeping critique of Nigeria’s leadership over the years, while reaffirming that his interventions – through books, letters, and public comments – have always been driven by patriotism rather than malice.
“All my writings have been aimed at making Nigeria better because I strongly believe in documentation and in the possibility of a better Nigeria”, the former military Head of State (1976-1979) and civilian President (1999-2007) said.
He referenced his earlier works such as “My Command”, “Nzeogwu”, “Not My Will”, and the three-volume autobiography “My Watch”, as well as his open letters to national leaders, as efforts intended to guide rather than condemn.
“Some have accused me of being guilty of the same failings I criticised. But I rely on my conscience and my records and have no need to defend myself”, Obasanjo remarked.
In a particularly scathing assessment, Obasanjo described the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari (2015-2023) as “the worst civil administration so far in Nigeria’s history”, citing its failure to address corruption, mismanagement, and electoral malpractice – issues he said were central to his justification of the 1983 coup against President Shehu Shagari.
“Words are cheap, and what needed to be done was left undone”, he wrote.
Turning to the current government, Obasanjo accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of “competing with Buhari’s in inefficiency.”
Despite his criticisms, Obasanjo stood firmly by his legacy, highlighting his service in war, peacekeeping, imprisonment, and nation-building.
“I have seen the best and the worst of Nigeria. Yes, mistakes were made, but great things were also done. My life has been a crucible of rural struggles, military service, humiliation and triumphs, all of which have taught me lasting lessons”, he reflected.
“I want to see Nigeria succeed soon. I may be close to my departure, but my desire is to witness the nation attain the greatness it deserves”, he concluded.
