Obasanjo: Only Leaders Ordained By God Will Succeed.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has asserted that leaders who are either self-made or enthroned by Satan are bound to fail. Speaking during a Zoom programme, Boiling Point Arena, hosted by a radio station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo emphasised that leadership ordained by God has a greater likelihood of success.
While rejecting the notion that all leaders are divinely chosen, he clarified that leadership can also emerge from malevolent influences.
“Most leaders are prepared by God and put in place by Him. When that happens, the chances of success are higher than when someone makes themselves a leader, which may not be an act of God,” Obasanjo stated.
He dismissed the claim that all leaders are ordained by God, adding, “A leader can also be made by Satan. Satan is real, and his power should not be underestimated, even though he has no salvation.”
Addressing the persistent issue of corruption in Nigeria, Obasanjo underscored the importance of starting the fight at the highest levels of leadership. He argued that this approach would set a strong example and demonstrate a commitment to integrity and transparency.
“The best way of fighting corruption is starting from the head, that is where corruption has to be fought from,” he said, highlighting that corruption is a complex issue deeply rooted in society.
Quoting the late Sultan of Sokoto, Obasanjo likened corruption to a babariga (a traditional Nigerian robe), saying, “If you fold it on one side, it falls apart on the other. It’s not a one-day affair, a one-regime affair, or even a two-regime affair. It must be a consistent, daily effort.”
The former President also stressed the need for leadership recruitment and appointments to be based on merit rather than political or tribal considerations. He suggested that such an approach would better position Nigeria for progress and development.
“Merit must be prioritised if we are serious about moving the country forward. Political and tribal biases have no place in the appointment of leaders into public office,” Obasanjo declared.
In conclusion, Obasanjo called for a sustained and consistent approach to fighting corruption and ensuring quality leadership. He reiterated that combating corruption and strengthening governance requires collective effort, continuity, and unwavering commitment across successive administrations.
