Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late ex-U.S. President Jimmy Carter, describing him as a “humanist par excellence” and the only non-African leader who directly sought his release from General Sani Abacha’s detention.
Speaking at a memorial service held at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Obasanjo recounted Carter’s pivotal role during his imprisonment by the Abacha regime in 1995. The tribute, titled Jimmy Carter: The Departure of a Titan, highlighted Carter’s extraordinary intervention in securing Obasanjo’s transfer from prison to house arrest.
“President Carter was one of my foreign friends who stuck their necks out to save my life,” Obasanjo said. “On his visit to Nigeria, he persuaded Abacha to move me from detention to house arrest on my farm.”
Although the reprieve was short-lived, Obasanjo emphasized that Carter was the only non-African leader who personally visited Abacha to plead for his release.
Drawing parallels between their upbringings, Obasanjo reflected on the shared values of discipline, morality, and hard work instilled by their farming families. “He was born into a farming family in Plains, Georgia, while I was born in the rural village of Ibogun-Olaogun in Ogun State,” Obasanjo noted, adding with humor, “He beat me in one respect—there was a road to his settlement; we had none.”
Their bond extended to their military careers, having first met during Obasanjo’s tenure as Nigeria’s military Head of State.
Obasanjo praised Carter’s unwavering dedication to Africa, particularly his efforts in dismantling apartheid and colonial rule in Southern Africa. He contrasted Carter’s sympathetic approach to the continent with the indifference of his predecessor, Gerald Ford.
“President Carter’s visit to Nigeria in March 1978, the first by a sitting American president, underscored his commitment to African progress,” Obasanjo said.
Obasanjo also revealed the involvement of media mogul Ted Turner, who sought Carter’s help in advocating for his release. Turner reportedly offered to support Obasanjo’s family during the ordeal, a gesture that deeply moved the Nigerian leader.
“In the U.S., Carter told me of Turner’s generosity and his efforts to secure my freedom,” Obasanjo recounted. “I was touched and moved to tears.”
Reflecting on Carter’s life, Obasanjo commended his humility, selflessness, and leadership. “He carried along an army of co-workers who shared his ideals,” he said. “He led by example, and that made success follow him.”
As Obasanjo bid farewell to his friend, he expressed gratitude for Carter’s enduring legacy. “For me, I would miss a great and true friend, but I know we shall meet again in Paradise. May his soul rest in peace.”
Jimmy Carter passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia. His life and legacy continue to inspire across continents.
