Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has attributed the recent wave of coup d’états in some African countries to bad governance, nepotism, favoritism, and a lack of integrity in leadership. Obasanjo, speaking at an interactive session on public service and governance held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, expressed concern over the current state of democracy in Africa.
In the past two months, military takeovers have occurred in Gabon and Niger Republic, with military leaders citing poor governance and mismanagement of resources as the reasons for their actions. Obasanjo, despite his personal aversion to military rule, acknowledged that African citizens are seeking alternative leaders due to dissatisfaction with their governments.
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He emphasized that conditions that encourage coups must be addressed, pointing out that job opportunities for African youth are limited compared to previous generations. Obasanjo recounted his own experience of having multiple job offers upon completing his education, which is no longer the case for many young people in Africa today.
He also raised concerns about African nations’ relationships with their former colonial powers, particularly France. Obasanjo questioned whether these nations have truly achieved full independence and sovereignty.
While expressing disapproval of coups, Obasanjo acknowledged that the conditions driving such actions must be addressed to ensure political stability on the continent. He called for a focus on creating opportunities for African youth, reducing unemployment, and improving governance to prevent further coups and political instability.
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Obasanjo’s insights shed light on the complex challenges facing African nations and the need for comprehensive reforms to promote good governance and economic opportunities for the continent’s growing youth population.
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