Risqua Muhammed, son of former Head of State, Murtala Ramat Muhammad, has criticised the attitude of today’s political leaders, saying many of them no longer place the nation above personal interest.

Speaking during an interview to mark 50 years since his father’s death, Risqua said Nigeria has drifted away from the values his father stood for while in office.

According to him, leadership in the country has lost the spirit of sacrifice and service to the people.

He said his father’s era was built on strong moral principles such as “anti-corruption, integrity, honesty, fairness, justice, and equity”, noting that these ideals are now missing in modern governance.

Risqua described the anniversary as a moment of reflection on the sacrifices made by past leaders to build the nation.

He said the continued remembrance of General Murtala Muhammed after five decades shows the lasting impact of his leadership and character.

He stressed that Nigeria must not allow the efforts of past heroes to be forgotten or wasted.

He warned that a society without integrity and justice cannot experience real progress.

Risqua also recalled Nigeria’s role in supporting liberation struggles in African countries such as Angola, Namibia, and South Africa, saying past leaders were driven by selfless service, not personal gain.

He expressed concern that many present-day leaders now put their families and close associates ahead of the general public.

According to him, ordinary citizens suffer when leadership becomes driven by favoritism and connections.

He said the country urgently needs leaders who will put national interest above private benefit and return to the values that once defined true public service.

Risqua added that Nigerians must demand accountability and commitment from those in power to restore trust in governance.