Elder statesman Chief Olabode George has expressed displeasure over government dictate and how politicians rule Nigerians in recent times.
George, while speaking recently at the fifth annual lecture of Freedom Online in Lagos on the theme: “2023-2027: Nigerians, elected leaders and expectations,” stated that he witnessed previous regimes, and it has not been as this.
His words:
“Rather than talk politics, I will be very spiritual. It is time for our nation to put the Almighty God first.
“I have witnessed, since 1952, all the talking and hullabaloos of our political life. I was old enough to witness the first republic under Tafewa Balewa and all that went on.
“Have we been managing the resources of our land for the benefit of our people? I have seen the top of the mountain and also the bottom of the valley.
“There is nothing in life, the way elected leaders take life as if there will be no tomorrow. Where are those leaders of yesterday?”
Meanwhile, George expressed optimism that the nation would rise again and called for financial integrity, good governance and accountability.
According to George, the many woes in Nigeria today were akin to those faced by Jerusalem of Judah in the days of the biblical Prophet Micah.
Speaking further, Chief George said the country must take another look at the 1999 constitution, which he said cannot take us to the promised land.
He said a people-centred constitution would ensure power flowed from bottom to top.
He further emphasised the need for decentralisation, state and local government police and for every state to have control of their resources.
