Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that campaigns remain a crucial part of the electoral process in any political dispensation, reminiscing that he covered the entire six states of the Southwest in one day ahead of the 1999 presidential elections.

Obasanjo emphasised this point while reminiscing on his past political campaign experiences during a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa at the Presidential Lodge of the Government House in Akure, Ondo State capital, on Monday.

While wishing Aiyedatiwa well ahead of Saturday’s gubernatorial election in the state, he stressed the challenges associated with the process.

The former President was in Akure for the inauguration of Ojaja Park, an estate developed by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

After being briefed by the governor on his campaign activities ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, Obasanjo wished the governor success in the election.

Obasanjo said, “I understand the challenges of this period for you. I remember my campaign for the 1999 election; I covered the entire six states of the South West in one day.

“I think we started in Akure, Ondo State here, then to Ekiti, and we got to Lagos around 8 p.m. This is a crucial part of the process, and I wish you all the best.”

Aiyedatiwa, who appreciated the former President for the visit, acknowledged his contributions to the development of Nigeria, adding that his achievements as President remain indelible.

The governor described Obasanjo as a “good recurring decimal” in the life of the nation.

Aiyedatiwa also shared his personal experiences with the former President, noting that despite his high profile and military background, Obasanjo remains a very humble and humane leader.