Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has voiced deep concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating state under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, warning that the country is currently in a state of “bondage” marked by rising insecurity, economic struggles, and fragmented governance.
Obasanjo made the remarks at his Abeokuta home in Ogun State on Friday while receiving southern delegates from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), who were consulting with him ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We are in bondage. Let us keep watching the situation, but more importantly, let us pray that God delivers us,” he stated, as reported by The Guardian.
Although he distanced himself from active politics, Obasanjo reaffirmed his loyalty to the progress of Nigeria, saying, “I belong to no party. Nigeria is my political party. I only care about the country’s progress.”
The former president also criticized Nigeria’s tribalized leadership model, highlighting the need for a president who genuinely represents the interests of all Nigerians.
“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 said.
Obasanjo urged citizens to stay alert and actively participate in the nation’s future, warning that indifference may enable the rise of selfish and incompetent leaders. He stressed that Nigeria urgently needs a leader with a nationalistic vision to redirect the country from its current downward spiral.