Obasanjo Calls For Top-Level Accountability In Fight Against Corruption

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has argued that Nigeria’s battle against corruption can only be successful if it begins with accountability at the highest levels of government.

Speaking in an interactive Zoom session titled “Boiling Point Arena”, aired by private radio stations in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, Obasanjo emphasized that without strong leadership and example-setting from top officials, efforts to combat corruption will remain ineffective.

Describing corruption as a “hydra-headed” monster deeply embedded in Nigerian society, Obasanjo stated that addressing it requires a consistent, daily approach.

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“The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head, that is where corruption has to be fought from,” he said, stressing the importance of leadership in setting the tone for the nation’s fight against graft.

The former president, who served two terms as Nigeria’s leader, likened corruption to a “babariga,” the Nigerian traditional attire, saying, “If you are folding it on one side, it’s falling apart on the other side.” He continued, “Corruption is not a one-day affair. It’s not a one-regime affair. It’s not even a two-regime affair. It has to be consistent. It has to be continual. It has to be a daily affair.”

Obasanjo also called for reforms in how leaders are selected, advocating for appointments based on merit rather than political or ethnic considerations. He warned against the rise of self-made leaders, asserting that “only God makes a leader,” and emphasized that any leader enthroned without divine will risks failure.

Reflecting on the nature of leadership, Obasanjo cautioned against the influence of malevolent forces, stating, “A leader can also be made by Satan.” He reminded listeners of the biblical story of Job, asserting that while God prepares leaders, the power of Satan must not be underestimated.

Obasanjo’s comments underline the critical role that leadership accountability and reform play in Nigeria’s fight against systemic corruption. With his call for consistency and integrity at the top, the former president has reignited debate on the necessity of long-term anti-corruption strategies in the country.