Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that his imprisonment under the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha in 1995 was a result of his refusal to stay silent on critical national and international issues.
Speaking at an interactive session with 15 young African leaders at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) over the weekend, the former president reflected on the challenges he faced, particularly his time in prison, which he attributed to his outspoken nature.
“Going into prison is really a challenge because I refused to keep quiet,” Obasanjo stated candidly. “For me, if there was anything to comment on, I did comment on them, and so, I landed in prison. That is a challenge I had to face.”
Obasanjo was accused of participating in a so-called phantom coup against Abacha’s regime. He was tried by a military tribunal, found guilty, and sentenced. However, the elder statesman used the experience to inspire the young leaders, emphasizing that life’s challenges can shape leadership.
From Prison to Presidency
Obasanjo explained that after retiring from the military at age 42, he settled into agriculture, focusing on his farm. However, his journey took a dramatic turn when he was imprisoned. Upon his release, he felt compelled to re-enter public service to save the country from what he described as imminent disintegration.
“When I came out from prison, the situation was so bad in the country that some people felt the need to be saved, and pressure started coming,” he said, referring to the events that led to his presidency in 1999.
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A Call for Youth Leadership
Addressing the young leaders, who were part of the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, Obasanjo urged them to embrace positive leadership roles for the betterment of Africa. “You must bear the torch of light and leadership for a better Nigeria and African continent,” he advised.
The Future Africa Leaders Foundation brought together winners of the prestigious Future Africa Leaders Awards, led by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. Obasanjo commended the organization for its efforts in empowering young people across Africa.
The 2024 Star Prize winner, Julian New Ariori from Benin Republic, expressed gratitude on behalf of the group. She noted that their tour of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library was eye-opening and inspiring.
Criticism of African Debt
During the session, Obasanjo criticized the rising debt profiles of African nations, blaming the trend on recklessness and corruption. “Most of the debts cannot be explained. Some are due to outright corruption,” he said. He recounted a specific example in Nigeria where funds for a carpet industry project were squandered, yet the loan had to be repaid.
Diverse Representation
The young leaders in attendance hailed from various African countries, including Libya, Morocco, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, South Sudan, Malawi, Egypt, and Cameroon. Others came from Togo, Ghana, Lesotho, Rwanda, and Burkina Faso, with Pastor Sylvester Ebhodaghe, the Foundation’s Head of Media and Government Relations, accompanying the team.
Obasanjo’s session left the participants with valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and the importance of confronting challenges. His story of imprisonment and eventual rise to leadership serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that come with speaking truth to power.