Tinubu Hails ‘Extraordinary…Sometimes Controversial’ Obasanjo At 88

President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 88th birthday, describing him as an “extraordinary leader and statesman” who has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s growth.

Tinubu acknowledged Obasanjo’s contributions to military and civilian leadership in a personal statement on Tuesday.

He recalled Obasanjo’s role in receiving the instrument of surrender from Biafra in 1970, his transition of power to civilian rule in 1979, and his return as a democratically elected president in 1999.

“Providence has constantly thrust General Obasanjo to the forefront at critical junctures in Nigeria’s story.

“He served the country meritoriously in the Nigerian Army. As a Colonel, fate beckoned on him while commanding the Third Marine Division to receive the instrument of surrender from Col. Philip Effiong, the Biafran Army Commander, signalling the end of Nigeria’s 30-month civil war,” he wrote.

Tinubu added, “Twenty years later, in 1999, he emerged as civilian president, freed from prison a year earlier, to herald the rebirth of another democratic dispensation, which recently clocked 25 years and still counting.

“During the two eras, General Obasanjo implemented critical policies and reforms and made important decisions that profoundly impacted the lives of many Nigerians. As the head of state, he consistently demonstrated a selfless commitment to national unity, peace, and progress.

Tinubu further described OBJ as a “troubleshooter” in African politics and a key figure in conflict resolution through platforms like the African Union and the United Nations.

However, the president acknowledged Obasanjo’s reputation for being outspoken, noting that his interventions in national affairs, while sometimes controversial, have acted as checks on leadership.

“Out of office, only a few will deny that the former president continues to wield considerable influence among the political elite at home and is well-regarded abroad, where he is an ambassador of global peace and a troubleshooter. His tireless efforts in conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to Pan-Africanism through institutions like the African Union and the United Nations are testaments to his statesmanship.

“Sometimes controversial, former President Obasanjo’s regular interventions in national affairs have helped shape public policies and acted as a check on leadership.

“I thank General Obasanjo for his onerous contributions to Nigeria. I commend him for his statesmanship and leadership.

“At 88, the former president is still gaining strength. I pray that God Almighty will grant him the grace and strength to live for more years so the nation and Africa can continue to benefit from his wisdom and knowledge.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt congratulations to this great patriot. Happy 88th Birthday, President Obasanjo!” Tinubu wrote.

THE WHISTLER reports that Tinubu’s tribute comes months after Obasanjo sharply criticised his administration, describing Nigeria under Tinubu as a “failing state”.

Speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University in November 2024, Obasanjo accused Tinubu’s government of widespread corruption and weak governance, referring to his leadership as “uninspiring.”

“What is happening in Nigeria – right before our eyes – is state capture, where public institutions are subject to undue influence from vested interests,” Obasanjo had said in his keynote lecture titled “Leadership failure and the state of corruption in Nigeria”.

In response, the presidency dismissed Obasanjo’s criticisms, with Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, calling the former president a habitual critic who failed to solve Nigeria’s problems during his tenure.

The presidency also recalled alleged corruption and governance failures under Obasanjo’s administration.

Despite criticism and counter-attacks, Tinubu was recently seen bowing in respect to Obasanjo at a public event—the fundraising ceremony for the Ibrahim Babangida Presidential Library and the presentation of Babangida’s autobiography, “A Journey in Service.”