Obasanjo Blames Pre-Independence Regionalism responsible for Nigeria’s Disunity

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Tuesday, expressed deep concerns about the lack of unity in Nigeria, attributing the nation’s prolonged disunity to the pre-Independence regionalism that shaped the country’s political structure. Obasanjo noted that this disunity has impeded Nigeria from achieving its full potential, despite its immense human and natural resources. Speaking at his Abeokuta residence, during a visit from the League of Northern Democrats, Obasanjo highlighted that Nigeria’s independence in 1960 brought about a leadership divided along regional lines, which has since contributed to the country’s inability to function as a cohesive nation.

According to the former president, Nigeria’s political structure post-Independence resembled “three countries in one” due to the dominance of regional leaders representing distinct political interests. He lamented that the country continues to struggle with this issue, but he remains hopeful that Nigeria can correct its historical mistakes. “As long as we can look back as a country and correct the mistake of the past, there is hope for a turnaround,” Obasanjo said.

Obasanjo Call for Merit-Based Leadership

Obasanjo emphasized the need for merit-based leadership, rather than focusing on regional or ethnic origins. He expressed disappointment that regionalism continues to influence leadership appointments in the country, arguing that Nigeria’s progress depends on selecting leaders based on their abilities to deliver national development rather than their geographical origins. He urged Nigerians to prioritize the collective interest of the nation over parochial regional considerations.

During his remarks, the former president noted that the identity of political groups, such as the League of Northern Democrats, should reflect a national perspective. “It is high time we began working for the national interest,” he stated. Obasanjo recommended renaming the League of Northern Democrats to the National League of Democrats to emphasize inclusivity and unity. “Where I was born should not be the enemy of my ‘Nigerianess,'” he added, reiterating the importance of national identity over regional affiliations.

Disappointment in Nigeria’s Global Standing

Obasanjo expressed deep regret over Nigeria’s current state, lamenting that the country has failed to live up to its early promise as a beacon of hope for the black race. Reflecting on Nigeria’s post-Independence reputation as the “giant in the sun,” he remarked that the country has fallen short of the world’s expectations. “The African continent, the black race, and the entire world are looking up to us, but we have disappointed ourselves and the world at large,” Obasanjo said.

He decried the loss of key values such as integrity, truth, and love, which have further hindered Nigeria’s development. However, the former president urged Nigerians not to despair, stressing that it is not too late for the country to retrace its steps and work towards reclaiming its lost glory. He emphasized that the country’s current challenges, though daunting, are not insurmountable, and called for collective efforts to rebuild Nigeria’s national pride.

League of Northern Democrats’ Vision for National Unity

The former governor of Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, who led the delegation of the League of Northern Democrats, explained that the group was established to promote good governance and national unity. Shekarau shared the group’s concerns over the prevailing disunity, insecurity, and underdevelopment in Nigeria, stressing the need for credible leadership to address these issues. He expressed disappointment that, despite having over 93 million registered voters, Nigeria continues to struggle with electing leaders from a pool of just over 11,000 individuals in key political offices.

Shekarau echoed Obasanjo’s sentiments on the importance of national unity, stating that the group would consider renaming itself to the National League of Democrats to align with the broader vision of inclusivity. He acknowledged the former president’s advice and pledged to continue advocating for national cohesion, good governance, and addressing the pressing issues of unemployment and education that plague the country.