Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that many of the people in government today should either be behind bars or be given the death penalty.
Obasanjo stated this on Friday, August 9, while hosting six federal lawmakers at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Obasanjo said; “Our main problem is ourselves. Whether we adopt a single six-year term or two four-year terms, if we persist with the same mentality and approach, nothing will change,” Obasanjo said to the lawmakers who had co-sponsored bills advocating for the six-year term and regional rotation of Nigeria’s presidency.
“The real issue is ourselves. Yes, the system needs rethinking, but the character of people in government must change. With all due respect, many in government should currently be behind bars or on the gallows.”
Discussing African politics, Obasanjo emphasised the need for a re-evaluation of liberal democracy to ensure broader inclusion.
“For me, it is not just about the system; we may need to rethink our liberal democracy. In Africa, we often speak of loyal opposition, but what happens is that a consensus is reached, leaving no room for genuine opposition; everyone aligns and moves together”, he said.
In many African languages, the term for opposition translates to ‘enemies.’ What do you do with loyal enemies? Once you assume power, you claim everything, leaving the opposition in obscurity. This approach is counterproductive. We need to unite to advance society”, Obasanjo added.
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