Former President Olusegun Obasanjo stated on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, that the principle of regionalism remains a significant issue for Nigeria, describing it as the root cause of the country’s problems.
Obasanjo made this remark while receiving members of the League of Northern Democrats, led by former Kano State governor Ibrahim Shekarau. He noted that the principle of regionalism, which was adopted at Nigeria’s independence in 1960, continues to be advocated for today.
“Where a leader hails from does not matter. Rather, what he brings to the table in terms of development and governance should matter,” Obasanjo told the group.
During the meeting, Obasanjo expressed concerns about the name of the group, advising them to adopt a more inclusive identity to better reflect national unity.
He said, “One of the things that led us to where we are today, and we haven’t gotten out of, is regionalism. Whenever I hear ‘North,’ ‘East,’ or ‘West,’ I get frightened.”
He added, “Your name would have been ‘National League of Democrats,’ instead of ‘Northern League of Democrats.’ But you must start somewhere.”
Obasanjo acknowledged the group’s concerns about Nigeria but emphasized the importance of addressing these issues with a national perspective.
“But how we correct the wrongs is what should be paramount in our minds. Nigeria is greater than all of us and we should see it as a holistic entity,” he said.
In a light-hearted remark, he told the group, “I share your concern, but if you’re a National League, maybe I will join you and even be your Patron if I cannot be active because I’m getting old.”
Earlier, Ibrahim Shekarau, in his address, explained that the League of Northern Democrats was formed three months ago after extensive consultations and discussions among like-minded individuals of Northern extraction. He stated that the group currently has 400 members.
According to Shekarau, the group aims to influence political decisions and leadership recruitment at all levels of governance in Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of credible and righteous leadership as a pressing challenge facing the country.
“We have analysed the various challenges facing us as a nation and particularly as the largest region, and we have to influence certain decisions in the political landscape,” Shekarau said.
He further elaborated on the issues confronting Nigeria, including insecurity, national unity, youth challenges, education, and the need to ensure the democratic process is sustained and improved.
“We also have issues of making sure our democratic process is sustained and improved upon,” he added.
