The purpose of this qualitative critical ethnographic research study was to understand the perception of selected leaders and their experiences in regional and national leadership positions in Nigeria. The study focused on identifying the leadership practices of past and present leaders involved in the operation of the Nigerian government, with emphasis on the eastern Region. The critical ethnographic design was used in order to gain in-depth knowledge and understanding of the issues and problems associated with the current impact of leadership in Nigeria, with regard to its reality, challenges, and perspectives. The researcher used Northouse's leadership approach and process to understand the leadership in the current Nigerian situation. Twelve past and present leaders in the government operations of the Eastern Region of Nigeria participated in the study, and the leadership assessment instrument survey questionnaire was used to support the study. While the study showed that there is need for change in leadership, the results of the study revealed that most of the leaders and policy makers in the Eastern Region of the country lack effective leadership for the positions they hold. The study also suggested some recommendations for improving the current leadership situation in Nigeria.