Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he declined a proposal to endorse Nasir El-Rufai as his successor in 2007, citing concerns about El-Rufai’s maturity at the time.
Obasanjo made this disclosure during the second edition of the Ajibosin Platform Symposium in Abeokuta. He was responding to a keynote speech by former Minister of Aviation Osita Chidoka, who had once recommended El-Rufai for the presidency.
El-Rufai, who served under Obasanjo as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and later as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (2003-2007), was among the names suggested to succeed him.
Obasanjo explained that Chidoka had lobbied for El-Rufai’s succession, but he chose instead to support the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. He said El-Rufai needed more time to develop the experience and composure required for national leadership.
Years later, Obasanjo added, Chidoka agreed with his assessment after observing El-Rufai’s performance in later roles.
Despite the past disagreement, Obasanjo praised both men for their unique contributions to his administration. He said effective leadership requires character, experience, and mentorship, qualities he believes are missing in Nigeria’s political system.
“Even armed robbers have apprentices,” Obasanjo joked, criticizing the lack of structured leadership training in Nigerian politics.
In his keynote address, Chidoka argued that Nigeria’s challenges stem not from a shortage of ideas but from weak governance systems. He urged leaders to focus on measurable outcomes and stronger accountability mechanisms.
The symposium, convened by Aare Olanrewaju Bakinson, centered on leadership in governance. Distinguished guests included Senator Shuaibu Salis, Oba Saka Matemilola (Olowu of Owu Kingdom), Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege (Olota of Ota), and Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, former Ogun State First Lady.
