Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized his stance as a non-partisan statesman, declaring that he does not belong to any political party. This statement was made during a thanksgiving service held at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity in Abuja, celebrating the 80th birthday of veteran journalist and former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Chairman, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu.
Speaking on Nigeria’s current challenges, Obasanjo acknowledged the difficulties the nation faces but encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and optimistic for a brighter future. He also praised Ugochukwu, recalling their relationship during his presidential campaign in 1999, and described Ugochukwu as a steadfast supporter who stood by him despite divisive pressures.
He said: “But remember what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 13. Your faith must not diminish. You must never lose hope. Even when things are as gloomy as they are in Nigeria today, we must remain optimistic and hopeful.
“And finally, you must live and continue to live a life of love. Love for your family.
“Love for friends and foes. Love for your community. Love for your state. Love for your country. Love for humanity. And love for God.
… in 1999
“When we came together, it was during the campaign. I’ve known a little bit about you by your reputation. We were two candidates competing in PDP – myself and Alex Ekweme.
“And right from the word go, you decided who you would be with. Some Yoruba elements in our campaign saw you as a spy. The Igbo elements on the other side saw you as a bastard.
“Why should you be with a Yoruba man when an Igbo man is contesting? And you stood your ground. You were unshaken and unshakable.
“You remained totally loyal. And I appreciate it. And you remain with me. Not 99.9% loyal, but 100% loyal. Throughout my tenure. I will be eternally grateful to you.
“When you went in, as the bishop said, to contest the election, and they overturned the election, you didn’t take revenge on anybody. You were not bitter. You didn’t even move out of the party. You remained.
“Some people would have moved out of their party. And you know some who are in our party, close to us, who did that.
My stand – OBJ
“Over the years, whether I am in or out, whether people are abusing me or oppressing me, I know your stand. I know I can count on you. Not only as my supporter, but for the party that we all built together.
“Even though now I’m a no-party statesman. I want to emphasise what the bishop said. At 80, what more do you want? Do you need it?
“All I will say is that you need to continue to serve humanity and serve God. And there’s no end to that. And the bishop said you should enjoy yourself. I will concur with that.
“But don’t over-enjoy yourself. Because one can overdo it. Once again, happy birthday, many happy returns. You will celebrate 90. And I will be there. You will celebrate 100. I will not be there. But wherever I am.”
