By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Tuesday revealed how he came across his own obituary on social media a few days ago.

Speaking in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, during the commissioning of a roundabout executed by Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration, Obasanjo recounted being woken by calls from relatives asking him to confirm news of his supposed demise.

“I was woken by calls from my relatives announcing my obituary. Thereafter, I checked social media and read that I had died the previous day. I am glad to say I debunked my own death story,” he said.

He added: “I told those who called me that if the report were true, they wouldn’t be hearing my voice. I know those behind the rumour.”

Obasanjo, a former military Head of State and two-term civilian President of Nigeria, shared the experience to the shock of attendees at the event, who prayed for his long life and prosperity.

The former President also described Governor Ademola Adeleke as his “dancing partner,” commending him for balancing his jovial personality with excellent governance.

“Despite being a dancer, he focuses on his duties as Governor. Within two years, he has performed better than many of his predecessors,” Obasanjo stated.

The visit concluded with a state banquet in Obasanjo’s honour at the Osun State Government House. Addressing Adeleke, he said: “You are a good dancer and a performing Governor. If you have achieved all these projects in two years, I cannot imagine what you will accomplish in four years. I congratulate you on your performance.”

Obasanjo recalled that despite his busy schedule, he accepted the Governor’s invitation to commission the Okefia Road project as part of the administration’s two-year anniversary celebrations.

“When Governor Adeleke invited me at short notice, I told him I had many commitments but that I would come. If Governor Adeleke calls me ten times, I will answer eleven times,” he remarked.

The former President also praised members of the 8th Senate who attended the event in honour of their former colleague, now Governor Adeleke.

He lauded Adeleke’s achievements, urging him to sustain the momentum of development across the state.

“Osun State is unique as the cradle of Yorubaland, with Ile-Ife at its heart. Under Governor Adeleke’s administration, the state has witnessed significant developmental projects,” Obasanjo said.

Earlier, Governor Adeleke described Obasanjo as a father of the nation and one of the most globally recognised Nigerian leaders.

Calling Obasanjo his “dancing partner,” Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy.

He highlighted ongoing road and flyover projects across the state, pledging to complete them and make Osogbo a model state capital.

He expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the 8th Senate and other dignitaries who joined him in celebrating the milestone, promising that his administration would remain focused on meeting the people’s expectations.