Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized the state of leadership in Nigeria, claiming there are more “yahoo boys” within the government than on the streets. Speaking at the 4th graduation ceremony of Nexford University on Saturday, Obi described Nigeria as a “crime scene” and called for urgent reforms in leadership.
Addressing the graduating class, Obi highlighted the pressing need for integrity and character in leadership to address the nation’s challenges. He urged the graduates to take on roles as agents of change, emphasizing that societal decay is not limited to street-level vices but extends to government officials.
“When we talk about vices, don’t think it’s just the yahoo boys on the streets,” Obi said. “The truth is, there are more yahoo people in government than outside it because we’ve turned the entire country into a crime scene, with people both inside and outside stealing.”
Obi lamented the failure of past generations to uphold accountability and urged the graduates to leverage their education to improve society.
“You’ve gained knowledge today—use it to help change society. You’re victims of a system where past generations have failed to do what is right, and now you’re bearing the consequences,” he added.
The former Anambra State governor emphasized the role of integrity and strong moral values in transforming Nigeria. “It’s not rocket science, but it’s not easy. It’s about having a strong character and resisting the temptation to do wrong,” Obi explained.
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He encouraged the graduates to take responsibility for fostering positive change in their communities. “You’ve been equipped with the tools to make a difference. The onus is on you to resist the cycle of corruption and build a better future for all.”
Oby Ezekwesili, former Minister of Education, also spoke at the event, reiterating the importance of service as the foundation of effective leadership.
“Service is the highest form of leadership,” Ezekwesili said. “See this graduation as an opportunity to serve—whether in your workspaces or in the country at large. The world of work today is vastly different from what it used to be, and you must master it.”
Ezekwesili urged the graduates to approach their careers with a sense of responsibility and purpose, emphasizing that leadership extends beyond holding positions of power.
Both Obi and Ezekwesili challenged the graduates to rise above societal challenges and use their education to contribute to national and global progress.
The event concluded with a charge to the graduates to uphold the values of integrity, service, and innovation as they step into the future. As Obi stated, “Creating a better society starts with individuals who have the courage to do the right thing, even in the face of adversity.”
The remarks from both leaders sparked conversations on the need for quality leadership and accountability to address Nigeria’s systemic issues.