Obasanjo Calls for Jailing of Corrupt Politicians, Says 'Thieves Can't Provide Just Governance'

 

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged for corrupt politicians to be imprisoned, asserting that “thieves cannot provide just governance.” The 87-year-old elder statesman made this declaration during a virtual speech at the Denis Joseph Slattery memorial lecture in Lagos.

In his lecture, titled The Imperative for Moral Rectitude in Governance, Obasanjo stressed that accountability is a fundamental requirement for those in leadership. He argued that officials with compromised integrity lack the ability to make decisions that serve the public interest.

“Many people in both executive and legislative positions today should be behind bars for their past criminal misconduct,” Obasanjo said, adding, “You cannot expect thieves to deliver fair judgement in favor of the rightful owners of property.”

Reflecting on his time in politics, Obasanjo shared how corruption was normalized within the system. He recalled his shock upon entering politics, stating, “The first thing that stunned me was the level of corruption among election officials, which was seen as acceptable. The second was the widespread dishonesty and criminal behavior, often dismissed lightly."

He expressed frustration with how unethical actions are often excused as “just politics.” Obasanjo added, “Every immoral act is passed off as politics, which suggests that politics leaves no room for morality, ethics, principles, or good character.”

Concluding his address, Obasanjo urged Nigerians to prioritize “transformational leaders over transactional ones, truth over lies, integrity over dishonesty, and inclusion over marginalization." He emphasized that true governance requires leaders who focus on hope, production, and fairness for all.