AGovernor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State Monday threw guests at the 81st birthday of former President Olusegun Obasanjo into laughter when he advised the celebrant to stop writing letters.
This is coming as the former President said one of his sad memories is the early death of his parents who could not reap the fruit of their labour.
Governor Amosun, while delivering his goodwill message at the event held at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, also advised the former President to slow down on his activities.
Describing Obasanjo as a lover of Nigeria and a true nationalist, Amosun said the history of African continent would remain incomplete without the former President.
He said, “Love him or hate him, there’s something nobody can take away from him, he’s a true nationalist, Baba loves Nigeria and I know that there’s absolutely nothing he wouldn’t want to do for Nigeria.
“Even beyond the sores of Nigeria, if you start counting, Baba would be one of the best three giant of Africa, many of whom are now longer with us.
“There’s no way the history of our nation Nigeria and the continent of Africa would be written without the prominent mention of Baba.
“When they were praying for Baba, they said 120 (years) and I said 100 (years) is okay. But Baba, when you live to that age, don’t write letters, don’t write ooo; because Baba would continue writing when he lives till 120 (years), please don’t write oo! That is Baba for you.
“Please reduce your activities, you’re not getting young anymore. Baba, please slow down, you’re not getting younger anymore; we are not saying Baba should be indoors because he would die, but while you’re doing something, please slow down because we still want to have you around for many years.”
The former President, who was very thankful to God, attributed successes recorded in his life to loyal and committed aides.
According to him, mentioning his achievements of life without mention of his aides would be an unpardonable omission.
He said, “When people talk about my achievement, not mentioning or remembering that I wouldn’t have been able to achieve anything all by myself alone. I believe it could amount to a various serious omission because many of those who worked with me worked loyally, worked committedly and some of them are still doing so up till today.