What My Imprisonment Under Abacha Proved – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that true leadership comes at a cost.

He said while delivering a keynote address at an international colloquium titled “Burden and Blessing of Leadership: Reflections from Global Africa to the World,” organised as part of activities marking his 89th birthday.

He described leadership as a heavy burden and a profound blessing, adding that his imprisonment under the late military ruler, Sani Abacha, remains a reminder of the cost that often accompanies principled leadership.

The elder statesman, who served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1976 to 1979 and later as civilian President from 1999 to 2007, noted that many who covet power underestimate the personal sacrifices leadership entails.

“My imprisonment proves the price of a principled stand. Leadership without principle is mere management. True leadership demands that you say no when yes would be more convenient, and that comes at a cost,” he said.

Drawing from his experience as Commander of the Third Marine Commando Division during the Nigerian Civil War, he said leadership often requires solitary decisions whose consequences affect millions.

“There is the loneliness of final decision. When all the briefings have been received and all arguments made, you alone must decide. That weight does not distribute itself,” he said.

He recalled that in the final days of the civil war in January 1970, he opted for restraint to prevent further civilian casualties.

“No textbook told me what to do. The decision was mine alone,” he stated, stressing that the moment underscored the moral weight leaders must carry.

“The greatest burden a man can carry is his country on his shoulders. The greatest blessing he can also receive is that country’s gratitude. At 89, I now understand that the burden and the blessing are often the same,” he added.

Despite the hardships he faced, including three-and-a-half years in prison, Obasanjo said he would still choose the path of service.

“There is the blessing of having been given the opportunity to matter, to serve at the hinge of history,” he said.