Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the country as being in a state of bondage, struggling with insecurity, economic hardship, and divisive leadership under President Bola Tinubu.

He stated that Nigeria urgently requires a truly national leader to chart a new path forward.

Obasanjo made the remarks on Friday at his Abeokuta residence while receiving leaders of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from the southern region, who paid him a courtesy visit as part of their 2027 election consultations.

“We are in bondage. Let us keep watching the situation, but more importantly, let us pray that God delivers us,” Guardian quoted Obasanjo as saying.

The former president, who distanced himself from partisan affiliations, stated, “I belong to no party. Nigeria is my political party. I only care about the country’s progress.”

He stressed the importance of vigilance and civic engagement, warning that national indifference could hand power to leaders lacking vision and integrity.

Lamenting the country’s entrenched ethnic-based leadership, Obasanjo remarked, “We have had Fulani Nigerian presidents, Hausa Nigerian presidents, Yoruba Nigerian presidents… but we’ve yet to have a true Nigerian president, one for all, not just their tribe. Until we do, our problems will remain.”

He called for an urgent action to address insecurity, revive the economy, and end tribal politics, insisting, “We have few genuine nationalists among politicians today. Most are in it for themselves. Nigeria has disappointed not only Africa but the entire world.”

Also speaking during the visit, NNPP’s Ogun State governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, echoed Obasanjo’s concerns, describing Nigeria’s political atmosphere as disheartening.

“If we truly want to build this country, we must start by putting the people’s needs first,” Oguntoyinbo said.

“As Nigerian youths, we are preparing to come out en masse in 2027 to elect true leaders.”

NNPP Southwest Vice Chairman, Chief Ademola Ayoade, said the party visited Obasanjo to seek his blessings and guidance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

When asked about a potential alliance with the ADC-led coalition, Ayoade said, “Not for now. We’re focused on our consultations. No alliance yet.”

He also dismissed reports of the party’s national leader, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso’s alleged defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“It’s mere rumour. As far as we know, he’s not moving anywhere,” Ayoade said.