Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that his unwillingness to remain silent on both national and international matters resulted in his imprisonment under the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha in 1995.
During an interactive session with 15 young leaders from across Africa at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) over the weekend, Obasanjo shared how his commitment to preventing Nigeria’s collapse motivated his decision to run for the presidency in 1999.
Initially, he had embraced a career in agriculture after retiring from the military service at 42, but the nation’s grim circumstances drove him back into public service.
The event, organised by the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, highlighted the achievements of the winners of the esteemed Future Africa Leaders Awards.
In a statement from his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo encouraged the youth to adopt positive leadership and to actively pursue transformative changes across the continent.
Reflecting on his imprisonment, Obasanjo characterised it as a pivotal challenge in his life.
He remarked, “I joined the Army and retired at 42. While I was vibrant and full of potential, I chose agriculture. However, my refusal to remain silent resulted in my incarceration. I spoke out on critical issues, and my outspokenness came with consequences. Upon my release, the dire state of the country prompted people to seek my assistance, leading to my return to leadership.”
On the topic of Africa’s debt crisis, Obasanjo condemned the recklessness and corruption surrounding numerous loans.
He cited a Nigerian example where funds meant for a carpet factory project were mismanaged, yet the loan was still repaid.
“Most debts in Africa are unjustifiable; many are blatant corruption,” he lamented.
Obasanjo praised the Future Africa Leaders Foundation and its founder, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, for their significant contributions since 2013.
“What Pastor Chris has achieved is remarkable. Some may consider it a mere drop in the ocean, but remember, many drops create an ocean. I urge the beneficiaries to carry the torch, inspire others, and bring about positive disruptive changes as today’s leaders.”
Star Prize winner Julian New Ariori from Benin expressed her gratitude on behalf of her fellow winners, emphasising the enriching experience of touring the Presidential Library.
Participants hailed from various countries, including Libya, Morocco, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, South Sudan, and Malawi.
The session was facilitated by Pastor Sylvester Ebhodaghe, Head of Media and Government Relations for the Foundation.
