Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has sounded the alarm over growing discontent among the country’s youth, warning that the current state of leadership could lead to an inevitable revolution driven by anger and hunger. He emphasized that unless Nigerian leaders act decisively, the frustration and dissatisfaction brewing among the young population could escalate into something far more dangerous.
In a candid message shared in his latest book, Nigeria: Past and Future, Obasanjo highlighted that the country’s youth, despite being hardworking and talented, are increasingly frustrated with the nation’s pervasive corruption, inept governance, and mismanagement of resources. He stressed that these young Nigerians are fed up with empty promises and the unchecked greed of those in power.
The former president’s stark warning reflects the broader sentiments of a generation that is watching helplessly as leaders indulge in lavish lifestyles while the nation’s resources are squandered. “We are sitting on a ticking time bomb,” Obasanjo warned, urging government leaders to wake up to the reality of a youth population that is “disappointed, dissatisfied, bitter, hungry, angry, unemployed, and unempowered.”
If the status quo persists, Obasanjo fears the situation could worsen, leading to widespread chaos. Drawing on history, he recalled the words of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, who famously said, “Those who make peaceful change impossible will make violent change inevitable.” Though he is not calling for violence, Obasanjo cautioned that Nigeria could face a dangerous tipping point if meaningful change is not implemented.
Obasanjo also pointed out the decline of traditional leadership structures in Nigeria, lamenting that many so-called traditional rulers today are far removed from the honor and respect they once commanded. Instead of playing a role in national development, many are seen as contributing to the country’s problems through corruption and mismanagement.
Turning his attention to the military, Obasanjo criticized the government’s failure to adequately equip the military to tackle insurgencies like Boko Haram, with corruption among military suppliers exacerbating the problem. He accused the government of preferential treatment toward certain criminal groups, further undermining efforts to restore security and stability.
Obasanjo’s warnings are a stark reminder of the dire consequences Nigeria faces if it continues down its current path. The youth, he concluded, are increasingly aware that their future is at stake, and if the government fails to address their needs, the fallout could be catastrophic for the nation as a whole.
