Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has voiced strong concerns about the current state of the nation under President Bola Tinubu, describing the country as being in “bondage” and in urgent need of a unifying national leader.
Obasanjo made these comments on Friday while receiving leaders of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from the southern region at his residence in Abeokuta. The delegation visited as part of their consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We are in bondage. Let us keep watching the situation, but more importantly, let us pray that God delivers us,” Guardian quoted Obasanjo as saying.
Distancing himself from partisan politics, the former president emphasized that his loyalty lies solely with Nigeria. “I belong to no party. Nigeria is my political party. I only care about the country’s progress,” he said.
Obasanjo also underscored the need for citizens to remain vigilant and engaged, cautioning against political apathy that could empower self-serving leaders.
Addressing the long-standing issue of ethnic-based leadership, he noted, “We have had Fulani Nigerian presidents, Hausa Nigerian presidents, Yoruba Nigerian presidents… but we’ve yet to have a true Nigerian president, one for all, not just their tribe. Until we do, our problems will remain.”
He further called for decisive efforts to combat insecurity, stabilize the economy, and dismantle tribal politics. “We have few genuine nationalists among politicians today. Most are in it for themselves. Nigeria has disappointed not only Africa but the entire world,” he said.
During the visit, NNPP’s Ogun State governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, aligned with Obasanjo’s sentiments. “If we truly want to build this country, we must start by putting the people’s needs first,” he stated. “As Nigerian youths, we are preparing to come out en masse in 2027 to elect true leaders.”
NNPP Southwest Vice Chairman, Chief Ademola Ayoade, said the team visited Obasanjo to seek his advice and blessing ahead of the next election cycle. When asked about a potential merger with the ADC-led coalition, he said, “Not for now. We’re focused on our consultations. No alliance yet.”
He also dispelled rumors surrounding Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the party’s national leader, allegedly joining the APC. “It’s mere rumour. As far as we know, he’s not moving anywhere,” Ayoade affirmed.
