Former President Olusegun Obasanjo warns Nigeria is on the brink of collapse unless leaders and citizens adopt a new mindset. He criticizes the government for enjoying privileges while urging the suffering masses to be patient, emphasizing the need for moral rearmament and character change across all sectors.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has strongly criticized the current Nigerian administration, warning that the nation risks collapse unless both leaders and citizens adopt a new mindset. Speaking in Abeokuta while receiving members of the House of Representatives, Obasanjo condemned the government for enjoying privileges while asking the masses to remain patient amid economic hardships.
Obasanjo emphasized that Nigeria's progress has been stunted by a lack of moral rearmament and an unwillingness to build on previous efforts. He stressed the need for a change in attitude across all sectors, including the executive, legislature, judiciary, civil service, and private sector. According to him, without this shift, the country is metaphorically sitting on a "keg of gunpowder" that could explode if legitimate demands from frustrated and unemployed youth continue to be ignored.
The former president dismissed the notion that changing the system of government alone would resolve Nigeria’s issues, arguing that the character and mentality of those in power are the real problems. He also questioned the effectiveness of proposals for a single six-year term for leaders, noting that without a change in mindset, these reforms would make little difference.
The lawmakers, led by Ugochinyere Ikenga, sought Obasanjo’s insights as they push for constitutional amendments, including rotational presidency and governorship to ensure fairness. Obasanjo's warnings resonate amid growing discontent over economic policies, with many Nigerians expressing frustration on social media. The government has yet to officially respond to Obasanjo’s remarks.