Obasanjo’s Leadership Criticized as Hypocritical and Unworthy of Emulation

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent remarks on Nigeria’s leadership and governance, delivered at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University, have sparked sharp criticism.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, described Obasanjo’s critiques as hypocritical, citing numerous failures and controversies during his own time in office.

Obasanjo, known for his frequent criticism of subsequent administrations, labelled Nigeria a failing state while targeting former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu, whom he referred to as “Baba Go Slow” and “Emilokan,” respectively.

Onanuga questioned Obasanjo’s moral authority to critique governance, citing instances of alleged corruption, abuse of power, and policy mismanagement during his tenure.

He highlighted Obasanjo’s controversial third-term agenda, flawed 2007 elections, and the alleged mismanagement of $16 billion in funds meant for electricity infrastructure.

The statement also underscored Achebe’s rejection of a national honor in 2004 during Obasanjo’s presidency due to “state-sponsored brigandage” and corruption in Anambra State, including the abduction of a sitting governor.

According to Onanuga, Obasanjo left unresolved issues that continue to affect the country, such as insecurity and inadequate infrastructure.

He credited Buhari and Tinubu with significant improvements in security, military modernization, and economic reforms, contrasting these achievements with what he described as Obasanjo’s failures.

The Special Adviser urged Obasanjo to focus on introspection rather than criticism, stating, “Instead of sermonizing, his remaining years would be better spent reflecting on the missed opportunities during his leadership.”

The presidency’s rebuttal adds to ongoing national discourse on the legacy of past leaders and the path toward addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.