The former President of Nigeria Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has regretted that corruption which he put in the front burner of his administration for eight years to keep in check was still much around.
Regrettably, he said instead of reducing it kept waxing stronger as a cankerworm slowing down every sector of development in Nigeria.
He labeled corruption a “great monster” hindering Nigeria’s progress, emphasizing the urgent need to eradicate it for the country to thrive.
Obasanjo made this remark during a memorial service held at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Agodi located at Oke- Ado in Ibadan, Oyo State, to honor the late Supreme Court Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola (retd.) and former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) who passed on August 20, 2024, at the age of 90.
President Obasanjo going down the memory lane spoke on how on assiming office in 1999, sent the first bill on anti- corruption to the House. “One and half years after the bill was passed”
He said he started to sesrch for a man of integrity that would faithfully implement his dream. ” I found Justice Mustapha Akanbi who only did one term. Then I started another search round the country. It took me sometime to find Justice Ayoola”.
For me , Chief Obasanjo said he did not regret his choice. But my greatest regret he intoned was what “I relentlessly fought for eight years is still much with us today”.
The former President highlighted the challenges of combating corruption in Nigeria were enormous noting its pervasive influence.
“Corruption is a formidable adversary that continues to plague our nation. It is not about whether the ICPC or Justice Ayoola performed their duties; it is about the relentless pressure of this insidious cancer we grapple with,” Obasanjo stated.
Chief Obasanjo praised Justice Ayoola as a man of integrity and dedication who significantly contributed to Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.
“We celebrate the life of a great man who has left an indelible mark on our society,” Obasanjo said.
Justice Ayoola was lauded for his unwavering commitment to justice and the fight against corruption, leaving behind a legacy of integrity that will continue to inspire future generations.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also paid glowing tributes to the late Ayoola, urging attendees to reflect on their legacies.
“Justice Ayoola has left an enduring legacy, raising the flag of Nigeria high in every role he undertook. His absence will be deeply felt. He is an icon in judicial landscape” she said.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Agodi, Revd Simeon Onaleke, delivered a sermon titled “Serving God’s Purpose in Our Generation,”My Greatest Regret urging legislative action to prevent corrupt politicians from returning to power.
“Let us focus on creating a legacy that others will remember,” he said. “Justice Ayoola fought many battles—not with weapons, but through his integrity and dedication.”
The memorial service attracted an array of dignitaries, including Justice of the Supreme Court Helen Morenkeji Ogunwumiju Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Hajo Sarki Bello; Oyo State Chief Judge Justice Iyabo Yerima; and other prominent figures such as Dr. Emmanuel Olanrewaju Ayoola Sir Folu Olamiti, Asiwaju of Ijeshaland Yinka Fasuyi with his wife , Ambassador Godwin Adama. ICPC delegates led by its Secretary Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu.
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