Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has highlighted the significant role the late U.S. President Jimmy Carter played in securing his release from prison in 1995.
Obasanjo, who was imprisoned by the Abacha regime for alleged involvement in a failed coup, expressed his gratitude during a memorial service at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday.
He stated, “President Carter was one of my foreign friends who risked their reputations to save my life and advocate for my release from prison. During his visit to Nigeria, Carter convinced Abacha to transfer me from detention to house arrest on my farm.”
Obasanjo noted that while many intervened on his behalf, Carter was the only non-African leader who came to Nigeria specifically to appeal for his freedom. He also recalled Carter informing him that Ted Turner, founder of CNN, had offered to support him and his family after his release.
The two leaders shared a connection through their military careers and farming backgrounds, which Obasanjo said fostered mutual discipline and respect.
Describing Carter as “a great and true friend,” Obasanjo said he would deeply miss him but felt assured they would reunite in paradise.
Jimmy Carter passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100.
