I’ll Defend Nigeria With My Last Blood – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday, said he would use the last drop of his blood to defend the unity and progress of Nigeria.

This came as President Goodluck Jonathan described Obasanjo as “a true nationalist and promoter of national unity.”

Obasanjo spoke during his 76th birthday celebration, at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta.

The birthday celebration also featured a public presentation of a book titled  “Olusegun Obasanjo- the Presidential Legacy-1999-2003.”

Obasanjo said: “Even if it remains the last breadth in me, I will work, preserve and promote the unity and progress of Nigeria, work for Africa development and indeed promote humanity.

“If you are in public service and you expect commendation of men and women, you may be the most disappointed human being on earth. So, if commendations do come, take it as it comes and accept it and if it does not come, don’t worry.

“Some people had made it a point of duty to run this place (Presidential Library) down even before it started. One day we were here and one man said he wanted to apologise. He said he joined people to condemn the library without even knowing what it is all about. I told him that it does not really matter, since God has not condemned us.”

In his goodwill message, President Jonathan, represented at the celebration by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Mike Oghiadomhe, said Obasanjo was a true elder statesman and peace loving person.

The President said:  “Your success are well placed in the history of our dear country. We celebrate with you as you continue to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria.

“You demonstrated this when military regimes were still fashionable, you shunned the unusual temptation of regime extension to usher in democracy in 1979.

“You have served Nigeria diligently and with total commitment, when in 1999 after the unfortunate incidences in our country and the opportunity came and you were beckoned upon to serve as elected president.”