How Abacha made me president of Nigeria – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that ex-Military Head of State, Sani Abacha contributed to his becoming president after he put him in jail.

Speaking to youths in Abeokuta at the Youth Governance Dialogue last weekend, he called on them to wrestle power from old hands since they were unwilling to relinquish power.

Obasanjo also urged the youth to work towards grabbing power, stating that it is never given on platter of gold, explaining how his antecedents led to him contesting for the presidency and winning.

“I joined politics from the top. The only position I contested for in Nigeria is the Presidency, but I had track record of achievements which led to that.

“Nobody will choose you, you have to choose yourself. Why should you have to become president at the age of 40? Why can’t you become president at the age of 35? Why can’t you become president at the age of 30?

“General Gowon became Head of State at 33. I became Head of State at 39. And it is because of my track record, and thanks to Abacha(late Gen. Sani Abacha) for putting me in jail.

“Those were the reasons why I have opportunity to come back as elected President of Nigeria. The point is this -how are you prepared? Are you really prepared?

“You should engage in things that will bring about unity and integration. You see yourselves as Nigerians and one family instead of pursuing things that could divide the country,” Obasanjo said.