Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has recounted the pivotal role his late wife, Stella Obasanjo, played in securing his release from prison during the 1995 Abacha-led military regime.
Obasanjo shared these reflections on Friday at the inauguration of the 250-bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin, Edo State, a facility named in her honor.
Obasanjo was arrested in 1995 under the late General Sani Abacha’s regime, accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot.
He was detained for four years until Abdulsalami Abubakar ordered his release in 1998, following Abacha’s death.
During Obasanjo’s imprisonment, Stella was a tireless advocate for her husband’s freedom, traveling globally to garner support for his release.
“My late wife went everywhere to ensure that I came out of prison alive. She was in Vatican City, France, and other parts of the world,” Obasanjo shared.
Tragically, Stella passed away on October 23, 2005, during a liposuction procedure.
Obasanjo expressed his deep gratitude to the Edo State Government for honoring Stella, who he described as a significant influence in his public life.
“We were planning for her 68th birthday anniversary but never had it before she died. It was very painful for me and my family,” he added.
“So you can appreciate how thankful I am to you for doing this in her honour.”
He also praised Governor Godwin Obaseki for his dedication to completing the hospital project.
“With this hospital, you’re assured of first-class treatment for any ailment. More grace to the governor’s efforts. With this kind of edifice, I can say that the governor started well and is finishing well,” Obasanjo remarked.
Obasanjo fondly recalled working with notable figures in Edo’s history, including John Oyegun, whom he described as a “fantastic permanent secretary” and close colleague.
