Former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that the fight against corruption can only be successful if senior government officials are held accountable. Obasanjo emphasised during an interactive Zoom session titled “Boiling Point Arena” held by a private radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, that combating corruption at the leadership level sets a vital example for the entire nation.
“The best way to fight corruption is to start at the top; that is where corruption must be fought,” Obasanjo stated, emphasising the need of leadership setting a good example in terms of transparency and integrity. The discussion, which was broadcast on private radio stations in Abeokuta, focused on Obasanjo’s achievements in office and his appraisal of Nigeria’s current situation.
Obasanjo described corruption as “hydra-headed,” stating that it has profoundly infiltrated Nigerian society and must be combated relentlessly.Using an example attributed to a former Sultan of Sokoto, Obasanjo compared corruption to a “babariga” (a flowing traditional attire): “If you fold it on one side, it would fall apart on the other. When you carry it on both sides, you can’t keep your hands up, and as soon as you put them down, it falls apart.
“That is corruption.” He emphasised that combatting corruption is a continual and everyday activity that requires consistent commitment across administrations. “Corruption is not a one-day event. It is not a one-regime matter. It’s not even a two-regime situation. It must be consistent, ongoing, and a daily occurrence. When one regime lets go, corruption spreads.”
Obasanjo also advocated for a change in the recruitment and appointment of leaders to public offices, favouring merit-based political appointments over those based on political affiliations or tribal factors. He argued that only leaders chosen for their skill and honesty could effectively serve the country.
Speaking about the source of leadership, Obasanjo said that not all leaders are created by God, as some are the result of personal ambition or even malicious forces. “Most leaders are prepared by God and installed by Him. When it occurs, the chances of success are greater than when someone declares themselves a leader, which may not be an act of God.
“However, we must recognise that Satan exists and has power. Satan is capable of creating a leader. In the instance of Job, Satan confronted God, challenging his righteousness. Satan has no redemption, yet his strength should not be underestimated. Obasanjo’s words emphasise the importance of Nigeria implementing a comprehensive and consistent approach to combating corruption, beginning with the highest levels of leadership.
He advised leaders to prioritise accountability and meritocracy to ensure that governance benefits the public. The former president concluded by emphasising that sustainable growth and national integrity can only be achieved by transparency, consistent action, and leadership based on accountability and divine purpose.
