Obasanjo Reveals Why He Ended Up In Prison During Abacha’s Regime

• In a discussion with 15 young leaders at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he explained that his willingness to speak out on important issues was the reason for his arrest

• He stated that he would not stay quiet about national and global matters, which ultimately led to his imprisonment.

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed why he was imprisoned during General Sani Abacha’s rule in 1995.

In a discussion with 15 young leaders at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he explained that his willingness to speak out on important issues was the reason for his arrest. He stated that he would not stay quiet about national and global matters, which ultimately led to his imprisonment.

“Going into prison is really a challenge because I refuse to keep quiet. For me, if there is anything to comment on, I did comment on them, and so, I landed in prison,” he recalled.

He added that the difficulties he encountered in prison were due to his strong dedication to addressing important issues.

Looking back on his prison experience, Obasanjo pointed out that conditions in Nigeria got worse after he was released, which increased demands for change.

“When I came out from prison, the situation was bad in the country that some people felt the need to be saved, and pressure started coming,” he added.

Obasanjo praised Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, who started the Future Africa Leaders Foundation (FALF), for his work in developing young leaders in Africa.

He recognized Oyakhilome’s efforts with the Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) and noted the positive changes it has brought since it began in 2013.