Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has weighed in on the ongoing debate about constitutional reform in Nigeria, and he’s not mincing words.
According to him, the country’s issues go far beyond what’s written in its constitution. The real problem, he says, lies with those in charge of implementing it.
“No constitution is perfect,” he wrote, “but even the best one can be wrecked by selfish and corrupt leaders who ignore its principles.”
His remarks were read at the summit currently taking place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. Obasanjo stressed that leadership, not just laws, is what truly shapes the direction of a nation.
He did not hold back in calling out bad governance and a lack of accountability. According to him, for over a decade, the same patterns of corruption, impunity, and self-interest have persisted, and unless something changes at the top, the welfare of Nigerians will continue to suffer.
“At this crucial time, the operators matter more,” Obasanjo insisted. “When we get the right people in leadership, they’ll give us the kind of constitution that truly works for every Nigerian.”
He advises that if Nigeria wants real progress, it needs more than new documents; it needs new direction.