Ime Akpan
President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday felicitated with the former president, Chief Olusgun Obasanjo saying their political differences notwithstanding, he will continue to hold Obasanjo in high esteem.
The president who spoke through his media aide, Mr. Garba Shehu said Obasanjo “is a passionate and great patriot who deserves accolades for his immeasurable contributions to our democracy and national unity.”
He stated that “regardless of our political differences with Obasanjo, I still hold him in the highest esteem because his contributions to the development of the country overshadow those differences.”
Reminiscing on their days together in the military, Buhari said “Chief Obasanjo gave a good account of himself and inspired his juniors with his wit and other leadership skills.”
“Nigeria’s successful transition to democratic rule in October 1979 was one of Obasanjo’s remarkable contributions to national development.”
“As he celebrates his 82nd Birthday Anniversary, I wish Chief Obasanjo more good health, knowledge and wisdom in the service of Nigeria and humanity,” he added.
For his part, the former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, in a goodwill message which he personally signed, said Obasanjo belongs to the class of Africa’s great leaders.
“I rejoice with you today on the occasion of your 82nd birthday. Indeed, you have been a great asset to our nation and your service to humanity has been exemplary.
“You are a patriotic and courageous leader who has remained steadfast in nation-building. Your legacies as a former Head of State and President of Nigeria will continue to endure; considering your achievements in the areas of unity, peace and development in Nigeria and the rest of Africa.
“History has accorded you a place in the roll call of great leaders not just in Nigeria but also in Africa. So I join your family and other well-wishers to celebrate with you on this day.
“May God continue to bless you with strength and good health even as you enjoy more glorious years on earth. Happy birthday, Your Excellency,” wrote Jonathan.
Also, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Obasanjo’s deputy between 1999 and 2007, Mr. Atiku Abubakar twitted: “A very happy 82nd birthday to you, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. No living Nigerian has given as much to Nigeria in peacetime and in war as you have. May almighty God grant you many more years in good health and continued service to Nigeria and the world at large.
Meanwhile, Obasanjo who supported Buhari in 2015 and later became his fiercest critic during the run-up to the February 23 presidential election said he does not have personal issues with the president:
“Governance is not a family affair and democracy involves criticism and considering all the sides to an issue.
“There is nothing personal between President Buhari and I.
“In a democracy, you can criticise a policy, a government or a leader because democracy is not a family affair.
“I believe that Africa has no alternative to democracy, good governance, development and growth of our economy.
“And if that is not happening in any country, those who keep quiet about it are accomplices.
“So, if I say anybody in government in Nigeria or any government for that matter is not doing well, let that government prove that it is well. It is not anything personal,” he said.
