Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has asserted that the fight against corruption can only succeed if it begins with accountability among top government officials.
Speaking during an interactive Zoom session titled “Boiling Point Arena”, hosted by a private radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo emphasized that tackling corruption at the leadership level sets a critical example for the entire nation.
“The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head; that is where corruption has to be fought from,” Obasanjo said, stressing that leadership must lead by example to demonstrate genuine commitment to transparency and integrity.
The session, aired by private radio stations in Abeokuta, focused on Obasanjo’s achievements in government and his assessment of Nigeria’s current state. Describing corruption as “hydra-headed,” Obasanjo noted that it has deeply permeated Nigerian society and requires relentless effort to combat.
Using an analogy attributed to a former Sultan of Sokoto, Obasanjo likened corruption to a “babariga” (a flowing traditional attire): “If you are folding it on one side, it’s falling apart on the other side. When you carry it on both sides, you cannot hold your hands up, and as soon as you put your hands down, it’s falling apart. That’s corruption.”
He stressed that fighting corruption is not a one-off effort but a continuous and daily endeavor, requiring sustained commitment across successive administrations. “Corruption is not a one-day affair. It’s not a one-regime affair. It’s not even a two-regime affair. It has to be consistent, continual, and a daily affair. Once one regime lets off, corruption spreads.”
Obasanjo also called for a reform in the recruitment and appointment of leaders into public offices, advocating for merit-based political appointments rather than those rooted in political affiliations or tribal considerations. He insisted that only leaders chosen for their competence and integrity can effectively serve the nation.
Speaking on the source of leadership, Obasanjo argued that not all leaders are made by God, as some are products of personal ambition or even malevolent forces.
“Most leaders are prepared by God and put in place by Him. When that happens, the chances of success are higher than when someone makes himself a leader, which may not be the act of God.
“However, we must also accept that Satan is real and has power. A leader can be made by Satan. In the case of Job, Satan went before God to challenge his righteousness. Satan has no salvation, but his power must not be underestimated.”
Obasanjo’s remarks reinforce the need for Nigeria to adopt a holistic and consistent approach to combat corruption, starting from the highest levels of leadership. He urged leaders to prioritize accountability and meritocracy, ensuring that governance serves the public good.
The former president concluded by stressing that sustainable development and national integrity are only achievable through transparency, consistent action, and leadership anchored in accountability and divine purpose.
