By Our Reporter
Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has stressed that the fight against corruption can only succeed if it begins with accountability at the highest levels of government. He argued that addressing corruption among top leadership would set a strong example and demonstrate the government’s commitment to transparency and integrity.
Obasanjo made the remarks during an interactive Zoom session titled “Boiling Point Arena,” hosted by a private radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday night. The discussion, which aired on several private radio stations in the state, focused on his legacies in office and his views on the current state of Nigeria.
The former president described corruption as a deeply entrenched problem in Nigerian society, likening it to a “hydra-headed” issue that must be tackled starting from the top to be truly effective. He emphasized that leadership must lead by example in the anti-corruption fight.
“The best way to fight corruption is to start from the top,” Obasanjo said. “That is where it must be addressed. Leadership must demonstrate commitment to transparency and integrity.”
Obasanjo also underscored that the fight against corruption must be a continuous, daily effort. “Corruption is deeply rooted, and it is not something that can be solved overnight or in a single administration. It requires consistency and persistence,” he added. He referenced a saying by the late Sultan of Sokoto, describing corruption as like a “babariga” (a loose garment) that falls apart when one tries to manage it without care.
“It’s a continuous struggle,” Obasanjo continued. “If one administration gives up, corruption spreads. It must be fought every day, at all levels of government, without respite.”
The former president also advocated for reforms in how leaders are appointed, calling for merit-based political appointments rather than decisions based on tribal or political affiliations.
On the subject of leadership, Obasanjo warned against self-made or politically-engineered leaders, asserting that true leadership is ordained by God. He further clarified that while God appoints some leaders, others can be influenced by negative forces.
“Most leaders are prepared by God, and when they are, the chances of success are much higher,” he said. “But not all leaders are made by God. Some can be made by Satan. Just like in the case of Job, where Satan played a role, we must accept