The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has paid glowing tribute to former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the occasion of his 89th birthday.
The former Vice President described him as a leader whose life has been defined by service, courage and commitment to national unity.
In a goodwill message via his official X handle on Thursday, Atiku celebrated Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria’s development and cohesion, noting that his legacy remains significant.
“As President Olusegun Obasanjo marks his 89th birthday, I celebrate a life that has been defined by service, courage, and an enduring commitment to Nigeria.
“His journey has been remarkable, and his contributions to the unity and progress of our country are truly significant,” he said.
The former vice-president described Obasanjo’s life as a testament to leadership and devotion to the Nigerian project.
Atiku also offered prayers for the elder statesman, asking for continued strength and good health.
“I pray that God continues to bless him with good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service to our nation and humanity,” he said.
Extending his personal felicitations, Atiku added, “On behalf of my family, I warmly felicitate my former boss and a statesman whose life reflects the strength and beauty of Nigeria’s diversity.”
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Obasanjo said that, at 89, he would not die anytime soon.
He condemned those circulating a fake letter in which he was purportedly speaking about his death, saying they were only wasting their time because “I dey kampe.”
The former president made this known on Wednesday while delivering a colloquium titled “Burden and Blessing of Leadership: Reflections from Global Africa to the World,” held as part of activities lined up to mark his 89th birthday in Abeokuta.
Obasanjo said that at 89, he had no doubt that God did not make a mistake in keeping him alive and reasonably healthy at his age.
He also slammed those wishing him dead, saying he would remain on the surface of the earth, agile and healthy, for as long as his Creator desired.
