Obasanjo, Danjuma Supports League of Northern Democrats (LND)

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has praised the League of Northern Democrats (LND) for its establishment, while urging the group to evolve into a national entity. During a meeting with a 20-member delegation led by LND Chairman and former Kano State Governor Senator Ibrahim Shekarau at his Abeokuta Presidential Library, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of broadening the League’s scope.

“If you transform into a League of Nigerian Democrats, come back to me and I will be your patron,” Obasanjo stated. He expressed his shared concerns about Nigeria’s current situation and encouraged the group to think beyond regional confines. “With the caliber of your membership, I believe something good will emerge from this initiative,” he added.

Obasanjo also commended Shekarau for his dedication and recognized Dr. Umar Ardo for his vision in convening the League. Shekarau informed the former president that the delegation sought to learn from his extensive experience in governance and leadership.

In his closing remarks, LND Secretary Emmanuel Jime expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s life and contributions, describing him as a quintessential nationalistic and detribalized Nigerian.

In a related development, former Chief of Army Staff and Minister of Defense General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma voiced concerns about the declining standards of political leadership in Nigeria, particularly in the North. During a visit from the LND delegation at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, General Danjuma remarked, “Leadership quality in Nigeria is deteriorating rapidly,” and urged current leaders to take immediate action to address this troubling trend.

He encouraged the LND to pursue its goals with determination, acknowledging the challenges posed by a corrupt political class wielding considerable power and resources. Shekarau shared the League’s vision to foster credible leadership in the North by uniting various interest groups and facilitating a more effective leadership recruitment process.

Shekarau highlighted the North’s struggles with insecurity, educational setbacks, and overall developmental stagnation. The LND aims to engage with eminent statesmen to gain insights into effective governance and leadership.

In response, General Danjuma commended the League’s initiative and pledged his support where possible. He expressed emotional reflections on the legacy of late Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, emphasizing the importance of leadership rooted in integrity.

Since its formation in July, the League of Northern Democrats has gained traction, securing endorsements from notable figures such as former Vice President Namadi Sambo, General Martin Luther Agwai, General AbdulRahman Dambazau, and General Alwali Kazir, significantly expanding its membership base.