Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has spoken out about the ongoing battle with corruption in Nigeria, describing it as a “great monster” that continues to hinder the nation’s progress. He expressed regret that, despite his efforts during his presidency, the pervasive issue of corruption prevented his initiatives from achieving their intended results.
Obasanjo made these comments on Friday while paying tribute at a ceremony marking the life of Justice Olayinka Ayoola (retd.), the former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), who passed away on August 20, 2024, at the age of 90. The memorial was held at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Agodi, in Oke-Ado, Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Reflecting on the challenges posed by corruption, Obasanjo noted, “Corruption is a significant and destructive force that continues to confront us as a nation. It is not that Justice Ayoola, or the ICPC, did not fulfill their roles; nor is it that I, as the one who appointed him, did not take the necessary actions. The problem lies in the overwhelming pressure exerted by this insidious cancer of corruption.”
The former president also took the opportunity to celebrate the life and contributions of Justice Ayoola, describing him as a remarkable individual. “Today, I stand before you to honor the life of this distinguished man, a great Nigerian, a great African, and a global figure, for the impact he made during his time with us.”
In her tribute, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, urged those in attendance to reflect on their own contributions to society. “We must ask ourselves: What role do we want to play in the world, and how will we be remembered when our time comes?” she said. “Justice Ayoola has left an indelible mark on history. His work has greatly enhanced Nigeria’s reputation, and we will deeply miss his presence. The legacy he leaves behind is one that we should all cherish and uphold.”
The ceremony was attended by several distinguished figures, including the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Hajo Sarki Bello; Justice Akintola Ladiran; Oyo State Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima; Justices Ogunwumiju, Adamu Jauro, Chidiebere Uwa, and Habeeb Adewale Abiru, as well as other Justices of the Supreme Court. Notable attendees also included Dr. Emmanuel Olanrewaju Ayoola, Ambassador Godwin Adama, Dr. Wale Babalakin, and Mr. Folu Olamiti, former spokesperson for the ICPC.