Well known Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described Chief Onyema Ugochukwu as a passionate and patriotic Nigerian who tried his best to reconcile himself with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
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Recall that Obasanjo and Atiku were competing for the presidency and vice presidency for most of his tenure (1999-2007).
Atiku said Ugochukwu did not take sides but rather tried to be a peace mediator.
Atiku stated this in Abuja today at a service of thanksgiving held at the Unity Cathedral of the Nigerian Methodist Church, Wuse, Zone 3, to mark the 80th birth anniversary of Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, a journalist and former Chairman, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Obasanjo…
Obasanjo has previously said he does not belong to any political party. He described himself as a “non-partisan politician”.
The former president commended the priest for his loyalty and support during the 1999 election campaign, even though Chief Alex Ekwueme was also running for the same position from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Obasanjo encouraged Ugochukwu to remain with the Lord and devote the rest of his life to humanity.
Atiku
In his speech, Atiku said: “Dear Sir, I cannot say that I have known Mr. Ogochukwu long enough because it was during our administration around 1998-1999 that we met.
“And so far, we keep in touch with each other. However, let me tell you that even during my tenure as President, when the President and I had issues, Mr. Ogochukwu never took sides.
Rather, he tried to be a mediator and I would say that I found him to be a very committed and passionate Nigerian throughout.
Let me also testify that in all the years that we have worked together, I have never heard of any misconduct by Onyema Ogochukwu.
“He remained a consummate gentleman who could be trusted.
“Mrs. Ogochukwu, you are lucky to have him.
To be honest, I must say this is one of the very rare events where I make myself public but I am very happy to be a part of this event.
“I look forward to being as old as you are.
So once again, congratulations to Onyema Ogochukwu and his family and to the entire nation of Abia State and Nigeria,” Atiku said enthusiastically.