Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has condemned the current state of Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu, describing the country as a “failing state” beset by widespread corruption, poor leadership, and insecurity. Speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, Obasanjo argued that Nigeria’s troubles are a direct result of the “immorality and corruption” permeating the nation, which he said is sinking deeper into chaos and underdevelopment.
In his keynote address, titled “Leadership Failure and State Capture in Nigeria”, Obasanjo pointed to the leadership style of President Tinubu, who, during his campaign, popularized the slogan “Emilokan”, meaning “it’s my turn.” Obasanjo decried the “Baba-go-slow” and “Emilokan” era, referring to Tinubu’s governance as a continuation of failed leadership that has worsened the country’s descent into insecurity, division, and instability.
“The situation in Nigeria is bad and worsening,” Obasanjo declared, noting that the nation is gripped by violence, political discord, and rising youth unrest. He attributed these problems to the country’s corrupt political system, which he said is driven by a political elite engaged in “state capture.” State capture, as defined by Obasanjo, is a form of corruption where powerful elites manipulate national policies, legal environments, and resources for personal gain, often undermining the public good.
“State capture is one of the most pervasive forms of corruption,” Obasanjo stated, drawing from definitions provided by global organizations like the World Bank and Transparency International. “What is happening in Nigeria—right before our eyes—is state capture. The purchase of national assets by political elites, the allocation of resources to benefit specific groups, and the manipulation of public institutions are clear manifestations of this crisis.”
Obasanjo elaborated on how state capture occurs subtly, through the close alignment of business and political elites, often backed by family ties and mutual financial interests. He pointed to how key national assets, such as land and minerals, are being allocated to elites and their families at discounted prices, and how legislative, executive, and judicial bodies are now subject to manipulation by these powerful interest groups.
This, Obasanjo argued, has led to a situation where the public interest is no longer prioritized. Instead, policies, laws, and regulations are skewed to benefit select groups, often at the expense of the broader population. He warned that such practices have severely impacted Nigeria’s economic development, the provision of essential services like education and healthcare, and the overall quality of governance.
The former president’s comments reflect a growing disillusionment with the Tinubu administration, as his government has been accused of failing to address corruption, enhance security, and deliver on promises of national unity and development. Obasanjo called for stronger legal frameworks, both domestic and international, to combat state capture and its damaging effects on Nigeria’s democracy and development.
While acknowledging the legacy of late literary icon Chinua Achebe, Obasanjo emphasized that the writer’s values of integrity and leadership are sorely needed in today’s Nigeria. The country, he said, is in desperate need of leaders who prioritize the public good over personal gain.
Obasanjo’s remarks underscore the deepening crisis in Nigeria under the presidency of Bola Tinubu, with critics highlighting the lack of progress in tackling the root causes of the country’s instability. As insecurity, corruption, and economic hardship continue to plague the nation, the former president’s warnings serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for change.
