Dear Chief Olusegun Obasanjo,
We, the youth of Nigeria, refuse to remain silent about the harsh realities we face as victims of a system that seems to thrive on chaos. I write to you from the diaspora—though if you ask me, I didn’t migrate; I escaped the grim realities Nigeria has inflicted upon us. Many of my peers are scattered across the globe, and I trust that, as an elder statesman, you’ve come across the term “Japa.” We’ve only heard tales of Nigeria’s golden age, while our own experiences have been marred by looting, mismanagement, and a government more interested in silencing dissent than addressing our plight.
The current administration in Ogun State seems more inclined to chase those of us who dare voice our grievances, while the DSS has transformed into a veritable puppet show, maintaining the “Suffering & Smiling” status quo. We are tired of being treated as charity projects for the elite while those responsible for our plight roam freely. We demand social justice, equity, inclusion, respect, and power.
I write to you because you symbolise a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Your legacy is a double-edged sword, marked by significant achievements yet shadowed by the very issues that plague our democracy today: rampant corruption, rigged elections, and the oppression of our people. As the first democratically elected leader after years of military rule, your tenure holds both triumphs and tribulations for Nigeria.
However, with your friend, General Ibrahim Babangida, having established his own presidential library, one might wonder if the Presidential Library you built is still a laudable feat. It’s high time we turned it into a vibrant hub for youth engagement. The persistent issues of corruption and political malaise have bred disillusionment among Nigerian youth, who feel disconnected from the political process.
To revitalise democracy, we must engage our youth in meaningful discourse. Your presidential library, with its treasure trove of Nigeria’s socio-political history, could serve as a critical resource for fostering political dialogue. Imagine it hosting workshops, conferences, and seminars that focus on political literacy and engagement. By bridging the gap between seasoned politicians and the youth, we could cultivate a politically informed generation ready to challenge corruption and advocate for transparency.
Consider implementing initiatives akin to the Kashim Ibrahim Fellowship, which emphasises leadership development. Such programs can equip our youth with vital skills and empower them to actively participate in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. We could also draw inspiration from Egypt’s African Presidential Leadership Programme, adapting its model to our unique context and challenges.
Moreover, we must address the stark divide between urban and rural youth. Urban centres often enjoy greater access to information and opportunities, leaving rural youth feeling alienated. By leveraging technology and social media, we can create programs that engage rural youths online, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Involving prominent political figures, including yourself, in these programs can provide inspiration and perspective. Sharing stories of resilience and leadership can encourage our youth to become proactive advocates for democracy.
Political debates are essential in a democratic society, yet their underutilisation has allowed ignorance and corruption to fester. It would be wise to initiate regular debates in educational institutions and communities, hosting representatives from various political ideologies. The Presidential Library could provide not only a venue but also the resources necessary to inform these discussions.
Additionally, civic education programs are crucial in cultivating an informed citizenry. Higher education institutions should adopt curricula that promote critical thinking and ethics in governance. Collaborations with international bodies can enhance these programs, ensuring that our youth are not just passive observers but active participants in shaping their future.
Reflecting on your legacy, it is clear that while the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy persist, there is an opportunity to invigorate youth engagement. By utilising your Presidential Library as a hub for political discourse, we can foster a vibrant political culture that encourages active participation and challenges the corruption that has long thrived.
As Nigeria embarks on its next chapter, it is imperative that the youth—who are the nation’s future—are empowered and educated. By establishing the Presidential Youth Conference, Debate & Fellowship, you can become a beacon of hope for a generation committed to democracy, integrity, and national service.
Yours in Comradeship,
Dimeji Sodeke
