Obasanjo: Nigeria’s challenges rooted in leadership failure, Not constitution flaws

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has asserted that Nigeria’s persistent challenges are a direct consequence of the shortcomings of its leaders, rather than any inherent flaws within the country’s Constitution.

He emphasized that even the most meticulously crafted constitutional framework cannot succeed if implemented by incompetent or self-serving operators.

In a letter addressed to Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Chairman of the National Summit on the Future of Nigeria’s Constitutional Democracy, Obasanjo’s remarks were read aloud on Wednesday at the summit, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

While acknowledging that his experience operating the Constitution would allow him to “point out some areas that need amendment,” Obasanjo stressed his greater concern for “those who operate the Constitution — their commitment to good governance and the welfare of citizens is far more critical.”

The former President contended that even a perfectly refined constitution could be manipulated if handled by self-serving leaders.

He highlighted a “dangerous trend of corruption, impunity, and moral decay among public office holders” that has become evident in the recent past.

“If the operators of the Nigerian Constitution in the last decade and a half continue in the same manner, the welfare and well-being of Nigerians will remain compromised — sacrificed on the altar of selfishness, corruption, and a blatant disregard for morality, integrity, and decency,” Obasanjo warned.

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He underscored that Nigeria’s immediate need is ethical leadership, positing that meaningful constitutional reform will only materialize when competent and principled individuals are at the helm.

“At this crucial time, the operators matter more,” he stated. “When we get the right leaders, they will give us a constitution that reflects the aspirations of every Nigerian and allows all citizens to feel a sense of ownership in the Nigerian project.”

The ongoing summit, which brings together policymakers, constitutional experts, civil society representatives, and political leaders, aims to explore practical pathways to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework and foster inclusive governance.