Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday received the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, alongside the party’s Ogun Central Senatorial candidate, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, and other party leaders during a private meeting at his penthouse within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta.
The meeting focused on the future of Ogun State and the need for purposeful leadership and good governance.
Speaking during the meeting, Obasanjo said he had stepped away from partisan politics but remained committed to the welfare, progress, and well-being of Nigerians.
The former President urged Adebutu to pursue his governorship ambition with humility, wisdom, and a genuine desire to serve the people, stressing that leadership should be guided by God’s purpose rather than personal ambition.
“At this stage of my life, I have set party politics aside. The goals of party politics are not always the same as the goals of promoting the welfare and well-being of the people.”
“I can no longer engage in partisan politics. However, I will always remain deeply interested in the welfare, well-being, and progress of our people. That commitment will never change,” Obasanjo said.
He further advised Adebutu to ensure his aspirations align with God’s will.”
“As for your desire and ambition, I encourage you to pursue them with wisdom and humility. Let your plans align with God’s purpose for your life because it is ultimately God who directs our paths,” he said.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s challenges, Obasanjo lamented the country’s inability to maximize its abundant natural resources, urging leaders to focus on responsible governance and sustainable development for future generations.
“We are blessed as a large African country, rich in land and abundant natural resources. Yet, despite these blessings, we have not managed them as well as we should. Our elders have a responsibility to provide guidance, preserve our traditions, and take meaningful action that will benefit future generations,” he added.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Adebutu described Obasanjo as a father figure, mentor, and statesman whose guidance remains invaluable.
He said the visit was to seek the elder statesman’s blessings and inform him of the party’s commitment to delivering better governance in Ogun State.
“We came to spend quality time with our father, our mentor, and indeed, the father of modern Nigeria. We also came to appreciate him for his immense contributions and to share our vision for a better-governed Ogun State.”
“We have received his blessings and wise counsel, and with that encouragement, we are determined to move forward in the interest of our people,” Adebutu said.