‘Selfishness, Corruption the Real Problem’ — Obasanjo Faults Leaders, Not Constitution
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says Nigeria’s challenges are rooted not in its constitution but in the conduct of those entrusted to implement it.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the opening of a three-day national summit on the future of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, Obasanjo, whose speech was delivered by Olawale Okunniyi, secretary-general of Eminent Patriots, said leadership behaviour remains Nigeria’s most pressing issue.
“The best constitution can be perverted and distorted by the operators, and we have experienced that all over Africa; Nigeria is not exempted,” he said.
Organised by The Patriots in collaboration with the Nigeria Political Summit Group, the summit brought together stakeholders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Obasanjo acknowledged that while Nigeria’s constitution is not flawless, it can promote good governance if properly implemented.
He warned that no constitutional amendment will bring change without a shift in the mindset of those in power.
“No matter what you do to the Nigerian constitution, if the operators of the constitution, for the past one decade and a half, remain unchanged and continue in the same manner, the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians will continue to be sacrificed on the altar of selfishness,” he said.
According to the former president, “a constitution must reflect the history, aspirations, and constituents of a nation,” but success ultimately depends on those who operate it.
He called for a renewed focus on integrity, honesty, and respect for the rule of law among Nigeria’s leaders.
