Obasanjo Speaks On Challenges Faced By Igbo Presidential Candidates In 1999

Obasanjo Speaks On Challenges Faced By Igbo Presidential Candidates In 1999Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has opened up about how Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, the former Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), chose to support his presidential bid in 1999 over fellow Igbo contender, Dr. Alex Ekwueme. Speaking at a thanksgiving service in Abuja to mark Ugochukwu’s 80th birthday at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, Obasanjo praised Ugochukwu for his unwavering loyalty during the 1999 election campaign, despite the fact that both men were vying for the same position under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Obasanjo, who noted that he no longer belonged to any political party, acknowledged Ugochukwu’s steadfast support even when it was not a popular decision among his ethnic group. According to Obasanjo, Ugochukwu’s commitment to him was evident from the outset, despite facing criticism from both Yoruba and Igbo factions within the party. He described how some Yoruba supporters viewed Ugochukwu as a spy, while some Igbo supporters criticized him for aligning with a Yoruba candidate instead of an Igbo one.

Obasanjo went on to commend Ugochukwu for his unwavering loyalty, noting that he had always remained steadfast, not only during the election but throughout Obasanjo’s tenure. “You remained totally loyal—100% loyal,” he said. “And I will be eternally grateful to you.”

The former president also praised Ugochukwu for not seeking revenge after the election results were overturned, and for choosing to stay within the PDP, demonstrating a level of maturity and commitment that many others might not have shown. “You didn’t take revenge, you didn’t move out of the party. You stayed with us, and that’s a testament to your character,” Obasanjo added.

At the reception following the service, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid tribute to Ugochukwu, highlighting his role as a peacemaker during moments of tension between Obasanjo and himself. Atiku noted that Ugochukwu remained neutral and focused on reconciliation during the challenging period of their administration. “I never heard any unwarranted action from Onyema Ugochukwu. He was always a dedicated and passionate Nigerian,” Atiku said, calling Ugochukwu a “perfect gentleman.”

Both Obasanjo and Atiku celebrated Ugochukwu’s patriotism and integrity, with Obasanjo urging him to continue living a life of love and service to humanity. In his closing remarks, Atiku also wished Ugochukwu a long and fulfilling life, saying, “I hope to get to your age and still be as vibrant as you are. Congratulations, Onyema Ugochukwu, and to your family, and to the people of Abia State and Nigeria at large.”

The thanksgiving service served as a moment of reflection on Ugochukwu’s loyalty, leadership, and contributions to Nigerian politics and development.

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