Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized that Nigeria’s fight against corruption can only succeed if it begins with accountability among the country’s top government officials.
Speaking during an interactive Zoom session on Sunday night, titled “Boiling Point Arena,” Obasanjo argued that tackling corruption at the highest levels would set an example and demonstrate the government’s commitment to integrity and transparency. The session, which aired on private radio stations in Abeokuta, Ogun State, also reflected on Obasanjo’s legacies in government and his assessment of Nigeria’s current state.
“The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head. That is where corruption has to be fought from,” Obasanjo said, describing corruption as a “hydra-headed” problem deeply embedded in Nigerian society.
He noted that the fight against corruption must be consistent and sustained across successive governments. “Corruption is not a one-day affair, not a one-regime affair, or even a two-regime affair. It has to be a daily, continual effort. Once one regime lets its guard down, corruption spreads,” he warned.
Obasanjo also highlighted the importance of merit-based political appointments, calling for an end to recruitment based on tribal or political considerations.
Addressing leadership, the former president stressed that success is more likely when leaders are chosen through divine will rather than self-promotion or other negative influences.
“Most leaders are prepared and put in place by God, and when that happens, the chances of success are higher. However, not all leaders are made by God. Some leaders can be made by Satan,” Obasanjo said, adding that the influence of Satan in leadership should not be underestimated.
He called for a holistic approach to leadership selection and governance, emphasizing the need for consistent accountability and ethical standards to rebuild Nigeria’s institutions and combat corruption.