Agbakola writes Obasanjo, says Nigeria needs a generational shift in political leadership

I am concerned about the quality of leadership in Nigeria. Corruption is endemic. Poverty is high. Life expectancy is low. Nigeria ranks poorly on all international human development indicators. Chinua Achebe in his book “The Trouble with Nigeria” pointed out the situation of Nigeria is directly linked to failure of leadership.
Our country is held back by a crop of leadership that have outlived usefulness and effectiveness as a result of old age. It beggars belief that there is no culture among our political elite, to encourage younger people with new ideas to aspire to positions of leadership, in particular the office of the President.
The modern history of Nigeria was shaped by young people. Your Excellency was 39 years when you became Head of State. Zik was 40 when he founded the NCNC. Awolowo was 43 when he became Premier of Western Region. Ahmadu Bello was 40 when he co-founded the NPC. Ojukwu and Gowan were in their 30s when they took centre stage in Nigerian politics.
It seems to me a great contradiction that after a young vibrant set of leaders got Nigeria off the ground in the early 60’s, Nigeria has steadily descended into chaos and is probably now ranked as one of the most ungovernable countries in the world.
I feel compelled to request your intervention because you are one of few past leaders with enough clout to galvanize the political elite to produce like in France, a Macron or in Canada, a Trudeau. I believe it is time for our elder statesmen to give way to a young new vibrant political leadership. I am also convinced that with your support this can be achieved and expanded to become high policy amongst all political parties in Nigeria. Nigeria will greatly benefit. I strongly feel that a radical change in political leadership from old to new will be transformational.
I look forward to hearing from you on this matter.
Accept assurances of my highest regard.
Sincerely,
Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN