The Nigerian political landscape requires a reset to enable the country to reach its full potential on the global stage, Babatunde Olusunle has said.
Speaking at the launch of his books in Abuja on Wednesday, Olusunle described the current political situation, as depicted in his books, as one that has hindered the nation’s progress, noting that the phenomenon has prevented Nigeria from advancing at the pace it should.
However, Olusunle expressed optimism, stating that the situation could be reversed with a structural reset of the political system while emphasizing that the contributions of key political figures in shaping a brighter future for the country should not be overlooked.
These emerged in Abuja on Wednesday during the launch of two books by Olusunle, ‘Orisirisi: Vistas on Contemporary Politics in Nigeria’ and ‘Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths’.
The event was chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, and supported by Gen. Aliyu Gusau, the former National Security Adviser (NSA), who was the father of the day, alongside Chief Onyema Ogochukwu.
Others in attendance included former Governor of Kwara State Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, Chukwudi Eze, Sen. Sunday Karimi, Isa Aremu, Eyitayo Togun (SAN), and Sen. Augustine Akobundu, among several others.
The book reviewer, Prof. Genga Ibileye, who is the Provost of Federal University, Lokoja, highlighted the impact the two works stand to make in a time when Nigeria grapples with profound political and social challenges, as the two books provide critical insights into the nation’s past, present, and future.
The reviewer said the works present a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Nigerian governance and the human narratives that shape it.
He said Orisirisi stands out as a multifaceted examination of contemporary Nigerian politics. Olusunle employs a unique duality in its title, drawing on the culinary term for assorted meat while simultaneously invoking the disorderly and chaotic nature of Nigeria’s political landscape.
According to him, the books dissect governance, corruption, and leadership, reflecting on historical and current issues that have impeded Nigeria’s progress.
He said: “As noted in the book, ‘Nigeria’s political class has perfected the art of recycling mediocrity,’ illustrating how entrenched corruption has become a barrier to effective governance.
“Olusunle’s analytical approach is complemented by a thoughtful critique of Nigeria’s leadership evolution.
“The author effectively links the political missteps of the past to current governance failures, suggesting that ‘the political evolution of Nigeria is a tale of missed opportunities.’
“Such reflections encourage readers to confront the uncomfortable realities of Nigeria’s political history while recognizing the potential for reform.”
In contrast, Prof. Ibileye said Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths shifts focus from political critique to celebration, honouring the lives and legacies of influential Nigerian figures.
“This collection of tributes provides a poignant look at the human side of leadership, capturing the essence of individuals who have shaped Nigeria’s trajectory.
“Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Olusunle weaves a narrative that resonates with emotional depth.
“While the two works differ in tone, Orisirisi being more critical and analytical, and Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths more reflective and sentimental, they are complementary in their themes.
“Together, they encapsulate the intricate tapestry of Nigeria’s political landscape, offering readers both macro-level analyses and micro-level human stories.
“As Nigeria navigates its political evolution, understanding these narratives becomes crucial.
“The relevance of Olusunle’s works cannot be overstated. As the nation faces pressing governance issues and seeks a path toward stability, these books serve as essential tools for understanding the complexities of Nigerian politics.”
Represented by Olusegun Adekunke, the SGF praised Olusunle for his inclusive and non-discriminatory nature, noting that he maintains friendships despite differing opinions or political and socioeconomic affiliations.
Highlighting Olusunle’s deep understanding of Nigerian politics, the SGF remarked that his books aptly capture the complexities of the country’s political landscape.
He also commended the thorough research underpinning Olusunle’s work, encouraging other writers, both established and aspiring, to follow his example and contribute to preserving Nigeria’s political and cultural history through their writing.
He commended the depth of research in Olusunle’s books and challenged other writers, particularly aspiring ones, to follow his example while urging him to continue his work, emphasizing the importance of writing to preserve history for future generations.
Brig. Gen. Saleh Bala (rtd), representing former NSA Gusau, emphasized the need for Nigeria to take decisive action, highlighting the military’s past successes in restoring and maintaining peace globally.
He lamented the apparent inability of the same military to effectively combat persistent banditry in Zamfara and other regions.
Bala also referenced the former Guards Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen. Julius Oshanupin, whose heroic role in the rescue of American hostages remained undocumented and unacknowledged by Nigerian writers, underscored the need to celebrate such achievements.
“Here is a hero that hardly do we have his achievement chronicled in the annals of the history of Nigeria.
“He was the Nigerian commander in Somalia in the heat of the war. This was the kind of men who were brave enough that no other contingent rose to rescue American marines in the heart of Mogadishu.
“He lost men and equipment, he rescued Americans and he’s nowhere in the history of Nigeria,” he lamented.
On what motivated the books, Olusunle said being a creative writer and a poet, who has always been engaged in sociopolitical matters, “My literature covers radical themes, and from my school days onward, I’ve not only read about these issues but witnessed them in society.
“So, it felt necessary to speak out about self-development. You can’t be a committed writer in a country like ours and not address the challenges we face.
“I’d say I’m apolitical by nature. I’m a scholar and a teacher, so objectivity is crucial for me. I can rise above partisanship when needed, but when it’s important to take a stand, I’ll do so unapologetically.
“Primarily, I’m addressing leadership and ineptitude. We’re moving backward as a nation, and it’s worrying. As a people, we aren’t progressing the way we should.
“We recently marked our 64th Independence anniversary, which was a time for reflection—looking at our past, assessing the present, and hopefully believing in a better future”.
On the choice of the title ‘Orisirisi’ one of the books, Olusunle said, “Orisirisi represents a potpourri, a mixture of different elements. The book touches on politics, governance, leadership, literature, sports, and even experiences from the ivory tower.
“It’s a collection of diverse subjects, like a rich soup with various ingredients, each adding its own flavour.
“We need to reset and realign our course, focusing on moving forward. If we don’t, even countries that once looked to us for guidance will surpass us.
“Look at how, not too long ago, Nigeria held nations like Liberia and Sierra Leone together, but now, countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali are pulling away from our influence.
“We have to regain our footing, fix our economy, strengthen our moral values, and rebuild our respect in the global community if we want to grow”, he said.
Prof. Akinwumi Olayemi, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, former General Manager of the National Theatre Prof. Sunday Ododo, Chief of Staff to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Prince Olusola Akanmode, Assistant Inspector General of Police Tony Olofu (rtd), former Commander of Guards Brigade Brig. Gen. Julius Oshanupin, and Chief Onyema Ogochukwu, among others, spoke in glowing terms of Olusunle’s dedication, integrity, friendship, resourcefulness, and solution-driven nature.
Gusau Institute, Kaduna, and another friend of Olusunle purchased copies of Olusunle’s books for N5 million.
Chief Emeka Offor, appreciating his long-standing friendship with the author, acquired two copies for N2.5 million.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe also purchased copies for an undisclosed seven-figure sum, joining other notable individuals, including former Deputy Governor of Kogi State Yomi Awoniyi, who chose not to disclose the amounts they contributed.
Commenting on the books and depiction of the Nigerian realities, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power lamented that the country “continues to go down”, saying, “Especially our candidate He made some statements, he said, well, that’s exactly where we are today.
“Nobody would believe that we will get to where we are and continue to go down, and it’s such a big shame that Nigeria is looked upon by African
“I think what Nelson Mandela has said is that the world will never take Africa seriously until they take Nigeria seriously.”
“And we continue to go down. We want to make ourselves to be taken seriously….by other nations”.
