By Emmanuel Kwada
In a recent analysis responding to comments made by Bayo Onanuga and Sunday Dare, who criticized President Olusegun Obasanjo following his speech at the Achebe Lecture at Yale University, Dr. Umar Ardo defends the former president as a distinguished model of leadership in Nigeria.
Ardo, a noted scholar and advocate for historical accuracy, asserts that the critiques offered by Onanuga and Dare lack substance and are overly emotional, failing to consider the deep historical context of Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria. He argues that few leaders encapsulate the struggles and achievements of Nigeria quite like Obasanjo, whose journey from military commander to civilian president symbolizes resilience and dedication to the nation’s progress.
The transformative Murtala/Obasanjo regime of 1975-1979, which he describes as an exemplary period in Nigeria’s political history
The doctor emphasizes Obasanjo’s role during the Nigerian Civil War, where he played a crucial part in restoring the nation’s unity and facilitating reconciliation after a period marked by significant division. “His acceptance of the instrument of surrender from Biafra showcased his commitment to national healing,” Ardo notes, underscoring the former leader’s ability to navigate one of the nation’s most challenging eras.
Ardo points to the transformative Murtala/Obasanjo regime of 1975-1979, which he describes as an exemplary period in Nigeria’s political history. The voluntary transfer of power to a civilian government in 1979 marked a significant moment for democratic governance in Africa, demonstrating a prioritization of national interests over personal ambition—a rarity in the continent’s leadership narrative.
Obasanjo resumed power in 1999 as a civilian president, spearheading crucial reforms that fostered democratic institutions and set the stage for Nigeria’s economic development
After years of military rule, Obasanjo resumed power in 1999 as a civilian president, spearheading crucial reforms that fostered democratic institutions and set the stage for Nigeria’s economic development. Ardo highlights the debt forgiveness negotiations with the Paris Club and the liberalization of key sectors, particularly telecommunications, which spurred job creation and positioned Nigeria for economic growth.
Critics often cite the shortcomings of Obasanjo’s administration, particularly in infrastructure, but Ardo argues that the vision and initiatives laid out during his presidency were significant. By establishing anti-corruption measures and promoting transparency through bodies like the EFCC and ICPC, Obasanjo introduced accountability that remains relevant today.
During Obasanjo’s tenure, proactive security measures and socioeconomic reforms helped to mitigate the emergence of such groups
Moreover, Ardo addresses the challenges posed by insurgencies such as Boko Haram, noting that during Obasanjo’s tenure, proactive security measures and socioeconomic reforms helped to mitigate the emergence of such groups. He argues that existing systemic issues needed attention long before, thus highlighting Obasanjo’s foresight in addressing the foundations of insecurity.
The enduring impact of Obasanjo’s initiatives and his stature as a unifying leader and global statesman should be acknowledged rather than diminished
Concluding his defense, Ardo contends that the enduring impact of Obasanjo’s initiatives and his stature as a unifying leader and global statesman should be acknowledged rather than diminished. He calls upon critics to move beyond polarizing rhetoric and recognize Obasanjo’s key role in Nigeria’s journey towards unity and progress.
In light of ongoing national discourse about leadership qualities and moral integrity, Ardo reaffirms that President Obasanjo stands as a benchmark for future leaders, whose principles and dedication to Nigeria should be celebrated rather than criticized. His defense serves as a stern reminder of the complexities of leadership in Nigeria and the necessity of historical appreciation in understanding the contributions of its past leaders.
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