Author and former presidential aide, Babatunde Olusunle, has said Nigerian political landscape requires a reset to enable the country to attain its full global potential.
Olusunle at the launch of his books in Abuja on Wednesday, said the current political situation in the country as depicted in his books has prevented Nigeria from advancing at the appropriate pace.
While he expressed optimism about a positive change, he stated that a structural reset of the political system is necessary.
He also stressed that the contributions of key political figures should not be overlooked in shaping the future.
The two books launched by Olusunle are, ‘Orisirisi: Vistas on Contemporary Politics in Nigeria’ and ‘Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths’.
While secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, was chairman of the event, former national security adviser (NSA) Gen. Aliyu Gusau was the father of the day, alongside Chief Onyema Ogochukwu.
Other dignitaries at the event 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 and Provost of Federal University, Lokoja, Prof. Genga Ibileye, said the literary works provide critical insights in the past, present and future at a time when Nigeria grapples with profound political and social challenges.
He said books offer a nuanced understanding of the human narratives that shape Nigeria’s complex governance system.
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.”
Prof. Ibileye however said Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths celebrates and honours 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.
The SGF represented by Olusegun Adekunke, commended Olusunle for his inclusive and non-discriminatory nature, noting that he maintains friendships despite differing opinions or political and socioeconomic affiliations.
He noted Olusunle’s deep understanding of Nigerian politics, adding that the books aptly captured 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.
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