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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reaffirmed his stance as a “no-party statesman” and distanced himself from formal political affiliations.

Speaking at the 80th birthday celebration of Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, the first Executive Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in Abuja, Obasanjo praised Ugochukwu’s unwavering loyalty during his tenure, describing him as a man of integrity who stood by him throughout challenging times.

Obasanjo recalled how Ugochukwu faced criticism from both Yoruba and Igbo during the 1999 election, where Obasanjo ran against Alex Ekwueme.

He said despite accusations from some Igbo people labelling him as a “traitor” for not supporting Ekwueme, an Igbo candidate, and Yoruba factions questioning his loyalty, Ugochukwu remained steadfast.

Obasanjo expressed gratitude for Ugochukwu’s loyalty and noted that he “never took revenge” even after his victory in the Abia State governorship election was overturned by the Appeal Court.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who also attended the event, lauded Ugochukwu as a peacemaker who remained neutral during the well-documented rift between him and Obasanjo while in office.

Atiku praised Ugochukwu’s dedication to Nigeria and commended his efforts to mediate when he had disagreements with Obasanjo.

The event included the launch of two books titled Testaments and Testimonials and Galvanising Development in the Niger Delta, which were edited by Tunde Olusunle.