Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has declared that Nigeria is in a state of bondage, trapped by insecurity, economic turmoil, and tribalistic politics, and urgently needs a truly national leader to lead it out of crisis.
Obasanjo made the bold assertion on Friday when he received the leadership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) at his private residence in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
“We are in bondage,” the ex-president stated, lamenting the worsening state of the nation. “Let us keep watching the situation, but more importantly, let us pray that God delivers us.”
The former president, known for his vocal criticism of successive administrations, decried the dominance of ethnically biased leadership in Nigeria’s political history, stressing that the country has never had a “true Nigerian president.”
“We’ve had Fulani Nigerian presidents, Hausa Nigerian presidents, Yoruba Nigerian presidents… but we’ve yet to have a true Nigerian president — one who belongs to all, not just their tribe,” Obasanjo said.
He emphasized that the solution to Nigeria’s challenges lies in electing a leader with national character and vision. “Until we do that, our problems will remain. The country has disappointed not only Africa but the entire world,” he added.
Obasanjo also warned against political apathy among citizens, urging Nigerians to stay engaged in national affairs. “I don’t belong to any political party. Nigeria is my political party. What I care about is the future of this country.”
The visit by NNPP leaders was part of the party’s consultative meetings ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The delegation was led by the party’s Deputy National Chairman (South), Prince Nweze Onu, and included notable party figures from across the South.
Speaking on behalf of the party, Chief Ademola Ayoade, NNPP Southwest Vice Chairman, said the delegation came to seek Obasanjo’s prayers and fatherly advice.
Asked about possible alliances ahead of 2027, Ayoade said: “We are not in any alliance with the ADC or any party for now. Consultations are ongoing.”
He also dismissed speculation that NNPP’s national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, was planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying, “It’s all rumours. As far as we know, he is staying put.”
On the recent spate of defections among sitting governors, Prince Onu said Nigeria needs leaders with integrity.
“If you’re truly delivering good governance, you won’t need to jump from one party to another.”
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