Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasised that the fight against corruption can only succeed when it begins with accountability at the highest levels of government.
Speaking during a Zoom session titled “Boiling Point Arena”, hosted by a private radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo highlighted the importance of leadership in setting the tone for integrity and transparency across the nation.
“The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head; that is where corruption has to be fought from,” Obasanjo stated, stressing that leaders must lead by example to demonstrate a genuine commitment to combating corruption.
The interactive session, broadcast by several private radio stations, explored Obasanjo’s tenure in government and his views on Nigeria’s current state.
Describing corruption as a “hydra-headed monster,” Obasanjo noted its deep entrenchment in Nigerian society and the relentless effort required to tackle it. Using an analogy attributed to a former Sultan of Sokoto, he likened corruption to a babariga (a flowing traditional robe): “If you are folding it on one side, it’s falling apart on the other side. When you carry it on both sides, you cannot hold your hands up, and as soon as you put your hands down, it’s falling apart. That’s corruption.”
He emphasised that fighting corruption is a continuous effort that must persist across administrations.
“Corruption is not a one-day affair. It’s not a one-regime affair. It’s not even a two-regime affair. It has to be consistent, continual, and a daily affair. Once one regime lets off, corruption spreads,” he said.
Obasanjo also advocated for reforms in the recruitment and appointment of public officials, calling for merit-based selections over political or tribal considerations. According to him, only leaders chosen for their competence and integrity can effectively serve the nation.
Addressing the origin of leadership, Obasanjo argued that while some leaders are divinely appointed, others emerge through personal ambition or malevolent influences.
“Most leaders are prepared by God and put in place by Him. When that happens, the chances of success are higher than when someone makes themselves a leader, which may not be the act of God.
“However, we must also accept that Satan is real and has power. A leader can be made by Satan. In the case of Job, Satan went before God to challenge his righteousness. Satan has no salvation, but his power must not be underestimated,” he said.
