Obasanjo Slams Tinubu’s Leadership, Calls Nigeria a Nation in Decline

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has delivered a scathing critique of Nigeria’s current leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the administration as a period of profound decline for the nation. Speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University, Obasanjo labeled Tinubu “Baba-go-slow” and accused his government of deepening corruption, economic mismanagement, and insecurity.

Leadership Failure at the Core

Quoting Chinua Achebe’s The Trouble with Nigeria , Obasanjo attributed the nation’s woes to failed leadership rather than a lack of resources or talent among the populace. He argued that Nigeria’s progress is hindered by the inability of its leaders to lead by example and create a culture of accountability.

“The core problem is leadership,” Obasanjo said, echoing Achebe’s assertion that Nigeria’s issues stem from a failure to inspire integrity and set a moral standard for governance.

“State Capture” and Elite Corruption

Obasanjo also highlighted the rise of “state capture,” a phenomenon where a small group of influential elites exploit public resources for personal gain. He accused Tinubu’s administration of perpetuating this practice, resulting in the sale of national assets and the deterioration of critical public services such as education and healthcare.

“The decisions being made today,” Obasanjo warned, “are increasingly driven by the interests of the powerful few rather than the welfare of the general public.”

Economic Concerns

The former president expressed alarm over the country’s economic trajectory, citing poor fiscal management and policies that he said are widening inequality. He emphasized that corruption and short-term decision-making are eroding public trust and crippling Nigeria’s growth potential.

A Call for Integrity

Reflecting on Chinua Achebe’s legacy, Obasanjo praised the late literary giant for his unyielding commitment to critiquing Nigeria’s leadership challenges. He called for a renewed focus on integrity and accountability, urging the nation’s leaders to embrace transparency and pr