Shettima Urges Leaders to Document Their Service Legacies
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on both current and former public officials to embrace a culture of transparency by documenting their stewardship, emphasizing that public service must not be shrouded in silence or secrecy.
Speaking at the public presentation of the book “OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Oil Block” by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), the Vice President urged leaders to share their experiences and confront history with honesty.
“Life Is a Litigation with No Final Adjournment” — VP Shettima
In a powerful reflection on public accountability, VP Shettima said, “Life itself is a litigation with no end. There is no final adjournment in the pursuit of justice.” According to him, every public official is on trial—not just in courts of law, but in the eternal court of public opinion and national conscience.
He decried the prevailing culture of secrecy in Nigeria’s public institutions, describing it as a silence that must be broken. He emphasized that documenting one’s journey in service is a patriotic duty, not a personal indulgence.
Adoke’s Book Sparks Dialogue on Justice and Governance
The memoir by Adoke chronicles his controversial role in the highly litigated OPL 245 oil block transaction. He described the book as a therapeutic effort to “set the records straight” amid what he referred to as “clinical persecution.”
“I hold no grudge. I have forgiven those who caused me pain,” Adoke stated, while calling for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s justice and public service sectors to prevent similar injustices.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, praised Adoke’s courage and resilience, urging public office holders to serve with justice and fairness, regardless of political pressure.
Broad Support for Transparency and Reform
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State hailed the memoir as an important contribution to Nigeria’s historical records. He noted that it not only contextualizes the OPL 245 case but also highlights the need for institutional reforms in the oil and gas sector.
Dr. Reuben Abati, who reviewed the book, described it as a necessary and therapeutic account that corrects public misconceptions and serves as a testament to endurance through adversity.
Notable Attendees Embrace the Message
The event drew a crowd of influential figures including former Senate Presidents Bukola Saraki and Anyim Pius Anyim; governors past and present such as Kayode Fayemi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Nasir El-Rufai, and Adamu Muazu; and the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), among others.
Their presence underscored the broad relevance of the issues discussed—ranging from governance transparency to historical accountability in public service.
A Call to Preserve National Memory
Closing his remarks, VP Shettima urged all public servants to contribute to the nation’s collective memory by documenting their experiences.
“We are always being summoned—not by a judge, but by conscience and posterity. Our duty is to speak, record, and preserve the truth, no matter how painful.”
