Obasanjo: Nigeria is a failed state due to Baba-go-slow, Emilokan

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Nigeria’s current leadership, claiming that the country has become a “failed state” due to the policies of his successors, former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu. He argued that their leadership has led Nigeria into a state of chaos, insecurity, and underdevelopment.

Obasanjo made these remarks during a speech at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in the United States. The forum, which honors the late Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, hosted Obasanjo’s keynote address titled “Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria,” which was delivered via a pre-recorded video.

Although Obasanjo did not directly name the two leaders, he referenced their popular nicknames: “Baba-go-slow” for Buhari and “Emilokan” for Tinubu, both of which have been used by their critics. According to Obasanjo, the situation in Nigeria is dire, marked by widespread corruption and immorality that has worsened the country’s instability, youth unrest, and underdevelopment. He emphasized that the “failed state” status of Nigeria is evident in the consequences of pervasive corruption, incompetence, and injustice.

Obasanjo also criticized the Nigerian judiciary, claiming it has been compromised by politicians as part of a larger “state capture.” He argued that the judiciary, once respected internationally, has now become a tool for political manipulation. He pointed out that politicians often encourage their rivals to “go to court” after rigging elections, knowing that they can rely on a compromised judicial system. Obasanjo likened this situation to a cancerous growth that needs to be excised from Nigeria.

In addition, Obasanjo spoke about how the political elite continues to exploit the nation’s resources for personal gain. He criticized the practice of acquiring national assets at below-market prices and allocating resources to local, regional, and international interests. He also mentioned the continued control of some states by former governors, such as one who, despite leaving office 25 years ago, still holds significant influence in his state.

Obasanjo and Tinubu have a long history of political rivalry, which began during Obasanjo’s presidency when Tinubu was the governor of Lagos State. Their political animosity continued, with Obasanjo’s party failing to unseat Tinubu in the 2003 elections. The only time they aligned politically was in 2015 when they worked together to oppose the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Finally, Obasanjo condemned Nigerian politicians for exploiting the country’s widespread poverty and hunger, using “stomach infrastructure” tactics—distributing food and gifts to the poor in exchange for votes. He noted that such practices, funded by looted public funds, take advantage of vulnerable citizens rather than offering real solutions to their long-term problems.

In summary, Obasanjo painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s political landscape, accusing its leaders of corruption, state capture, and neglect of the country’s development needs.

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