Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has shared a deeply emotional account of how his late wife, Stella Obasanjo, played a pivotal role in securing his release from prison during the regime of General Sani Abacha in the mid-1990s.

In an exclusive interview with Daily Post, Obasanjo opened up about the tireless efforts of his late wife, whose determination and global advocacy were key in raising awareness about his wrongful imprisonment.

Obasanjo was incarcerated in 1995 on charges of plotting a coup against the Nigerian government under the brutal military rule of General Abacha. The charges were widely believed to be politically motivated, and Obasanjo, a former military leader himself, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term. However, it was Stella Obasanjo’s relentless campaigning that became a beacon of hope during his darkest hours.

Reflecting on those painful days, the former president emotionally recounted how Stella’s unwavering dedication and boundless energy led to his eventual freedom. “When I was in prison, that woman left no stone unturned,” Obasanjo said. “She went all over the world to seek my release. She went to Japan, she went to the entire Europe, she went to the Vatican, she went to Latin America, she went through Africa, she left no stone unturned for my release.”

Obasanjo described the profound impact of his wife’s global campaign, which included reaching out to world leaders, human rights organizations, and diplomatic channels across continents. Her efforts spanned Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, amplifying international awareness of the unjust nature of his detention and garnering the support of influential figures from around the world.

“I remember the sleepless nights she endured, and the long journeys she undertook,” Obasanjo continued, his voice tinged with gratitude and sorrow. “And God answered her prayers, and the prayers of all those praying for me, and I came out of prison alive.”

Stella’s tireless pursuit of justice not only kept international attention on her husband’s plight, but her interventions were instrumental in securing the diplomatic pressure that eventually led to Obasanjo’s release in 1998. Her global network and resolve ensured that his case remained in the public eye, becoming a symbol of the struggle for human rights in Nigeria.

Obasanjo also took a moment to pay tribute to the lasting legacy of his late wife, who tragically passed away in 2005. He expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing recognition of her contributions, especially in Edo State, where the Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City stands as a lasting testament to her work in healthcare and her dedication to public service.

“I am deeply grateful for the honor that the people of Edo State have shown my late wife,” Obasanjo remarked. “The naming of the hospital after her is a fitting tribute to her incredible contributions, and a testament to her commitment to the well-being of others.”

He went on to praise the people of Edo State for their continuous support and the enduring impact of Stella’s memory on the state’s development.