society
The Architects of a Nation’s Downfall: Nigeria’s Hall of Shame and the Collapse of Conscience
The Architects of a Nation’s Downfall: Nigeria’s Hall of Shame and the Collapse of Conscience
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
As Nigeria convulses under the weight of insecurity, economic collapse, institutional decay and moral bankruptcy, it becomes not only appropriate but necessary to name and shame those who knowingly led this nation into the wilderness. We are not victims of chance but of calculated betrayal, engineered by those who claimed intellectual and spiritual superiority; pastors, professors, politicians, media moguls and public figures who handed the keys of the nation to a man whose history was soaked in authoritarianism, ethnic chauvinism and glaring incompetence: General Muhammadu Buhari.
To begin this autopsy of conscience, we must establish the premise: these people knew better. They were not ignorant. They were not uninformed. They were not misled. They were collaborators.
The Collusion of the Educated Elite
Names like Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Charles Soludo, Pat Utomi, Oby Ezekwesili, Tunde Bakare and Wole Soyinka were not just bystanders in this national catastrophe but they were enablers. These are individuals trained in some of the world’s best institutions, purveyors of public thought and torchbearers of “truth”, yet they sold Nigeria to a man who not only lacked a West African School Certificate but also had a documented past of economic mismanagement, human rights abuse and ethnic bigotry.
Soyinka, for instance, famously campaigned against Goodluck Jonathan and threw his moral weight behind a former dictator. In 2015, he called Buhari “a born-again democrat.” How does one become a “born-again democrat” without a single interview on economic reform, education or healthcare? What happened to the intellectual curiosity of these so-called public thinkers?
Religious Betrayal and Prophetic Failure
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Deeper Life, Winners Chapel and other spiritual institutions, particularly through their pastors, either passively watched or directly endorsed Buhari. Pastor E.A. Adeboye, Pastor Kumuyi, Tunde Bakare, Sunday Adelaja, Father Ejike Mbaka all lent Buhari religious credibility despite glaring warnings from history. Bakare even shared a ticket with Buhari in 2011 and prophesied that Buhari would bring “divine order.” Instead, Nigeria witnessed divine disorder.
Where were these prophecies when innocent Christians and Muslims alike were slaughtered by insurgents? Where were these prophets when the naira lost over 70% of its value and more than 133 million Nigerians plunged into multidimensional poverty (National Bureau of Statistics, 2022)? Their silence is an indictment. Their endorsements are complicity.
Media, Pop Culture and the Celebration of Deception
Journalists and media figures such as Dele Momodu, John Momoh, Maupe Ogun and Chamberlain Usoh provided a platform for propaganda. The media failed in its duty to interrogate Buhari’s record and instead became echo chambers of a fraudulent messiah complex. The Nigerian media didn’t just report the news, they manufactured consent.
Musicians like 9ice and entertainers like Desmond Elliot crossed from art into propaganda, using their influence to support the very institutions and individuals undermining democracy. These celebrities became accomplices in the sanitization of tyranny.
Political Charlatans and Economic Saboteurs
The most odious names in this hall of shame are undoubtedly the politicians: Bola Tinubu, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Raji Fashola, Bukola Saraki, Adams Oshiomhole, Chris Ngige, Rabiu Kwankwaso and others who orchestrated the Return of the Tyrant.
They knew Buhari’s history:
In 1984, he jailed journalists and promulgated Decree 4, Nigeria’s most anti-press law.
Under his regime, Nigeria’s economy shrank, imports dried up and debt rose sharply.
He participated in Abacha’s murderous junta as PTF Chairman, overseeing funds shrouded in opacity.
In 2001, Buhari led protests against Nigeria’s secular status, demanding Sharia law across the nation.
In 2011, after losing the election, his supporters killed over 800 people in Northern Nigeria and yet no apology ever came.
Despite this public record, these political jobbers dusted him up, dressed him in agbada and marketed him as “CHANGE.”
Why They Did It: The Unholy Hatred for Goodluck Jonathan
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was far from perfect, but no leader in recent history showed more potential for true national rebirth. Under him:
Nigeria had 6% GDP growth (World Bank, 2013).
The Niger Delta amnesty brought peace.
Over 12 new federal universities were established.
Agriculture grew with the e-wallet fertilizer scheme.
And above all, Jonathan handed over power peacefully in 2015—a first in Nigerian history.
But Jonathan committed an unpardonable sin: He was Ijaw. He came from a minority group and dared to lead. The Northern oligarchy and their Southern errand boys could not stomach it. The propaganda was built not on policy, but on tribal resentment and manufactured outrage.
Tinubu, El-Rufai and their army of Twitter warriors painted Jonathan as the embodiment of corruption while sponsoring the most corrupt, divisive and underqualified man to ever hold the office. As Bishop Matthew Kukah put it in 2022:
“Buhari has divided Nigeria more than any other leader in our history.”
The Aftermath: National Collapse and International Shame
Nigeria under Buhari became a failed state by every measurable index:
Over 3.5 million internally displaced people (IDPs) as of 2024.
Over 1,200 schoolchildren kidnapped during his tenure.
The naira fell from ₦199/$1 in 2015 to ₦1,500/$1 by 2024.
Inflation reached 34%, and food insecurity hit crisis levels.
Universities were shut for over 9 months due to ASUU strikes.
Today, President Tinubu, a product of that same toxic political ecosystem, presides over a nation that’s barely breathing.
Posterity Will Judge Us All
Those who still defend these figures (whether for tribal, religious or personal reasons) are not just morally compromised, they are dangerously dishonest. Evil thrives not just because of wicked people, but because of the cowards who choose silence when truth must be spoken.
As Chinua Achebe once said, “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership.”
We must now add: a failure of intellect, conscience and spirituality.
This is not just a list of names. It is a catalogue of betrayal. It is a Hall of Shame, where the educated, the anointed, and the self-proclaimed saints traded our collective future for crumbs of political favour or false prophecy.
Let it be known to all who read this: History has recorded your names. Posterity will remember your roles. And your children’s children will ask what you did when Nigeria bled.
If you are silent, then you too are guilty.
Share. Discuss. Debate. But do not forget.
Let this Hall of Shame echo through time.
Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation
The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.
The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.
Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.
As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps
Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.
Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:
“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”
This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.
society
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.
According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.
“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”
Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.
By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.
For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.
As one youth participant reflected:
“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”
The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.
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