Abeokuta, Nigeria – In a dire warning, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that the country is “sitting on a keg of gunpowder” and risks imminent explosion if it fails to address its numerous problems.
Speaking to a group of lawmakers on Friday, Obasanjo insisted that Nigeria will not progress towards its goals unless both leaders and citizens embrace “moral rearmament.” He described the nation as one that takes “two steps forward, one step aside, and four steps backward.”
Obasanjo lamented that successive governments have failed to build upon the foundation he established during his tenure, leading to significant setbacks for the country. He said the demands of the #EndBadGovernance protesters are “very legitimate” and urged the government to heed the people’s grievances instead of pretending that all is well.
“What I know about Nigeria is that if we get it right — both leadership and team — because one tree does not make a forest, you need a good leader but also a good team for a well-done job,” Obasanjo stated.
The former president also criticized the political landscape, saying that in many African languages, the word for “opposition” translates to “enemies.” He argued that this approach is not beneficial and that everyone should join hands to advance society.
Obasanjo emphasized that the real issue lies in the character of the people in government, suggesting that “many in government should currently be behind bars or on the gallows.”
The stark warning from the respected elder statesman comes as Nigeria grapples with a myriad of challenges, including economic instability, security threats, and widespread discontent among the population. Obasanjo’s call for urgent action and moral transformation within the political class has resonated with many Nigerians who are seeking a way forward for their country.
