An influential assembly of political figures, traditional leaders, and civil rights advocates gathered at Mauve 21 in Ibadan for the unveiling of “The Stubborn Goat: A Citizen’s Engagement with Nigeria.”
Written by distinguished public intellectual and former Philosophy Department Head at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Professor Akinyemi Onigbinde, the two-volume collection debuted on January 26, 2026, marking the author’s 70th birthday. Attendees characterized the occasion as a thoughtful examination of Nigeria’s current state, offering what many called an “ethical diagnosis” of the nation’s challenges.
Distinguished Guests Span Political Spectrum
Former Ogun State Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel presided over the ceremony, which attracted a diverse group of dignitaries. The 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate Peter Obi attended, alongside former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the Orangun of Oke Ila Orangun, Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin.
The guest list also featured Senator Iyiola Omisore, a former APC National Secretary; Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, Chief of Staff to Oyo State’s Governor; former Lagos PDP gubernatorial candidate Jimi Agbaje; and human rights advocate Dele Farotimi.
Peter Obi Addresses Nigeria’s Persistent Challenges
During his address, Peter Obi connected Onigbinde’s analysis with Professor Peter Lewis’s “Growing Apart,” observing that both works highlight how Nigeria often recognizes proper solutions yet consistently pursues alternative approaches.
Obi commended the author’s dedication to national improvement, saying: “Genuine patriotism involves critical examination of our shortcomings, not unconditional praise. Professor Onigbinde’s essays offer sharp ethical insight into our political and economic realities. The stubborn goat metaphor—representing an animal that refuses passive acceptance of its fate—embodies principled opposition.”
Impact of Public Scholarship
Festus Adedayo, a prominent columnist and Tribune Editorial Board member who penned the foreword, characterized the work as exemplary social commentary. He recognized Onigbinde’s talent for revisiting essential national conversations with enduring relevance across decades. Adedayo highlighted the author’s skill in transforming complex philosophical concepts into “engaging intellectual fare with compelling appeal.”
The Scholar’s Journey
Discussing his milestone, Professor Onigbinde explained that the volumes represent years of contributions through newspaper columns and published articles. He shared the personal origin of the title, recounting how his mother frequently used the phrase “stubborn goat” to describe his unwavering commitment to his convictions.
The collection examines declining institutional credibility, weakening civic engagement, and Nigeria’s pressing need for principled governance. Participants emphasized the work’s significance as an essential resource for understanding the country’s ongoing socio-political challenges.
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