Sanwo-Olu, Ohanaeze eulogise Obasanjo at 85

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Ohanaeze Ndigbo have felicitated with former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the occasion of his 85th birthday, describing him as a quintessential global leader.

Obasanjo, who ruled Nigeria as military Head of State in the 70s and civilian President from 1999 to 2007, turns 85 years of age today (March 5).

Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, yesterday, decribed Obasanjo as one of the few Nigerian leaders that contributed immensely to the development of the country, both as military and civilian leader, and left with impeccable records.

According to him, at the global level, the octogenarian is a leader to reckon with due to his passionate involvement on African affairs and global issues.

“He has made lots of positive impact in the country as a military officer and political leader, fighting along with several other patriots for a united Nigeria during his days in the Nigerian Army.

“He has written his name in gold as the first Nigerian to serve as Head of State and later Civilian President. He also administered the country with focus on improving the lives of the citizens and the economy.

The National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze, Chief Alex Ogbonnia, stated, yesterday, that it pleased God to reward Obasanjo for the invaluable services he rendered to humanity at the various stages of his life.

He stated: “In his track record of accomplishments, both in the armed forces and civilian life, Obasanjo displayed courage, selflessness, prudence and upright dispositions. He has, at various times, demonstrated remarkable charismatic inter-ethnic relations, sacrifice, large heart, heroism and candour.”

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation said Obasanjo made immense contributions to the socio-political development of Nigeria in particular and Africa in general.

“It is by rare providence that he served twice as the Nigeria’s military head of state from February 1976 to October 1979, and as a democratically-elected President from May 1999 to May 2003. In both instances, there were several milestones that generations yet unborn will continue to savour.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo recalls, with fresh nostalgia, the far-reaching policies that defined the Obasanjo civilian administration, one of which was to hunt Nigerian talents wherever they were found, irrespective of gender, ethnic or religious persuasions. It was such a competence-driven administration that harvested the robust intellect of notable Igbo sons and daughters, such as Professors George Obiozor, Dora Akunyili, Osita Ogbu and Chukwuma Soludo, as well as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, Frank Nweke Jr, Ferdinand Agu and Ojo Maduekwe,” it noted.

According to the group, one of the most cherished among the Obasanjo persona is the uncommon courage of his innermost convictions and an unwavering commitment to his set goals, even when he is a lone voice.

“The enigmatic Obasanjo does not only speak truth to power, he has, on a few occasions, sacrificed his life and comfort zone for the benefit of Nigerian masses. He is unarguably one of the most outstanding contemporary Nigerians,” the statement added.

Ohanaeze expressed immense gratitude to Obasanjo for standing on the path of justice in favour of an Igbo president in 2023.

“Evidently, Baba sees beyond 2023. This is a rare statesmanship, which is in short supply in most parts of the Third World. These and more account for the global demand for the Obasanjo services, even at his old age.”