Obasanjo says he's jailed speaking out on national issues

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that his imprisonment under the late General Sani Abacha’s regime was due to his refusal to remain silent on critical national and international matters.

He shared this during an interactive session with 15 young African leaders at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he recounted the challenges he faced after retiring from the military at 42.

Obasanjo explained that his decision to voice his opinions led to his imprisonment, stating, “Going to prison is a challenge I faced because I refused to keep quiet. Whenever there was a need to comment on issues, I did so. That’s how I ended up in prison.”

He also discussed his motivation to run for president in 1999, which stemmed from the deteriorating state of Nigeria following his release.

Also, Obasanjo criticized Africa’s rising debt, attributing it to corruption and financial mismanagement, particularly the repayment of loans for non-existent projects.

Obasanjo praised the work of FALF founder Pastor Chris Oyakhilome in empowering young leaders across the continent, emphasizing the importance of leadership and positive disruption.

He urged the young leaders, hailing from 15 African nations, to embrace their roles as change agents.

Julian New Ariori, winner of the 2024 Future Africa Leaders Award from Benin Republic, expressed gratitude for the experience, stating that the tour of the library inspired them to lead with purpose.