Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the National Assembly as a “den of corruption by a gang of unharmed robbers.”
Obasanjo made the remark in a video that has gone viral on social media.
In the clip, the former president said:
“The National Assembly is a den of corruption by a gang of unharmed robbers.”
The statement is consistent with Obasanjo’s long-standing criticism of the legislature. Over the years, he has repeatedly accused members of the National Assembly of corruption, wastefulness, and failing to live up to their constitutional responsibilities.
Obasanjo, who was president from 1999 to 2007, has had a turbulent relationship with the National Assembly during and after his tenure. He has often accused lawmakers of prioritising personal interests over national development and of inflating their budgets at the expense of critical sectors.
His latest comment comes at a time when the National Assembly continues to face public scrutiny over its spending, constituency projects, and perceived lack of oversight on the executive arm of government.
The statement has generated mixed reactions on social media. While some Nigerians agreed with Obasanjo’s assessment, others criticised him for making sweeping generalisations and for his own record while in office.
Critics of the former president argued that he helped shape the current political structure during his time in power and should take some responsibility for the state of the legislature.
Supporters, however, maintained that Obasanjo was only speaking the truth based on his experience and observations over the years.
The viral clip has reignited discussions about the performance and integrity of the National Assembly, particularly regarding transparency, accountability, and the use of public funds.
Many Nigerians continue to express frustration over what they perceive as the legislature’s failure to effectively check the excesses of the executive while also engaging in what they describe as excessive self-enrichment.
