Chief Olusegun Obasanjo emphasized that effective anti-corruption efforts must begin with accountability at the highest levels of governmentHe described corruption as a deeply embedded, multifaceted issue in Nigeria, likening it to a “babariga”Obasanjo stressed that the fight against corruption cannot be limited to a single administration or period, but must be a consistent
Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria’s former president, has highlighted the critical role of leadership in combating corruption, asserting that genuine change can only begin with accountability among the nation’s top officials.
Speaking during an interactive Zoom session titled “Boiling Point Arena,” hosted by a private radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo underscored that fighting corruption from the top down would set a vital example for the rest of the country.
Olusegun Obasanjo hints on how Nigeria can best tackle corruption
Photo credit: Pius Utomi Ekpei
Source: Getty Images
“The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head, that is where corruption has to be fought from,” Obasanjo said on Sunday night.
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Obasanjo: Nigeria’s corruption is like a hydra-headed problem
The ex-president described corruption as a pervasive issue that has deeply infiltrated Nigerian society, Channels Television reported.
Using an analogy from the late Sultan of Sokoto, he compared corruption to a “babariga” that falls apart when folded on one side, symbolizing its persistent and multifaceted nature, Vanguard reported.
“Corruption is very hydra-headed and eats deep. 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,” he explained.
Obasanjo emphasized that tackling corruption cannot be a one-time initiative but must be an ongoing effort that spans different administrations.
“It’s not a one-day affair. It’s not a one-regime affair. It has to be consistent. It has to be continual. It has to be a daily affair. Once one regime is let off, it spreads,” Obasanjo warned.
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Gowon kicks against second civil war
Earlier, Henzodaily.ng reported that the former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, had warned against the possibility of another civil war in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2024 Annual Conference of the Bible Society of Nigeria, Gowon emphasised the need for peace and unity across the country.
Gowon reflected on the devastating impact of the war, which claimed millions of lives and left deep scars on the nation, noting that no country should endure such a tragedy twice.
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Source: Henzodaily.ng