Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has dismissed viral social media reports claiming he released a document announcing his own death.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abeokuta, Obasanjo described the online publication as completely false.
“They publish and circulate a fake paper credited to me, claiming that I am writing and giving notice of my death,” he said.
The former president added that the claim reflected the wishes of those spreading the rumour rather than reality.
“That is their wish and surely not God’s wish for me. God has assured me that He has more for me to do on earth.”
He also warned that those responsible for spreading the misinformation would face divine consequences.
“I dey kampe as usual,” Obasanjo said, using a popular Nigerian phrase meaning he remains strong and healthy.
Remarks at 89th Birthday Colloquium
Obasanjo spoke during an international colloquium organised to mark his 89th birthday.
The event, themed “Burden and Blessing of Leadership: Reflections from Global Africa to the World,” brought together leaders and scholars to discuss governance and leadership across Africa.
During the gathering, Obasanjo reflected on his decades of public service and his continued commitment to Nigeria.
“I love this country with all its contradictions, and I will die loving it,” he said.
Reflecting on Key Moments in His Career
Obasanjo recalled major milestones in his political life, including his role during the Nigerian Civil War.
As commander of the Third Marine Commando Division, he oversaw the final phase of the war and the formal end of hostilities in January 1970.
He also highlighted two defining moments of his leadership:
- The 1979 transition from military rule to civilian government
- Nigeria’s Paris Club debt relief negotiations during his presidency
Obasanjo first served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1976 to 1979, before returning as a democratically elected president from 1999 to 2007.
Concerns About Africa’s Leadership
Speaking on the broader African landscape, Obasanjo said the continent’s main challenge remains leadership.
According to him, Africa possesses abundant natural resources and a young population but has struggled to translate those advantages into sustainable development due to governance failures.
He reiterated that he remains committed to serving Nigeria and Africa for as long as he lives.
“I will continue to serve until my last breath,” he said.
