President Muhammadu Buhari has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as “a passionate and great patriot who deserves accolades for his immeasurable contributions to our democracy and national unity.”

In a statement to mark Mr Obasanjo’s 82nd birthday anniversary, President Buhari acknowledged that “regardless of our political differences with Obasanjo, I still hold him in the highest esteem because his contributions to the development of the country overshadow those differences.”

He said, “Chief Obasanjo gave a good account of himself and inspired his juniors with his wit and other leadership skills.”

According to Mr Buhari, “Nigeria’s successful transition to democratic rule in October 1979 was one of Obasanjo’s remarkable contributions to national development.”

“As he celebrates his 82nd Birthday Anniversary, I wish Chief Obasanjo more good health, knowledge and wisdom in the service of Nigeria and humanity”, President Buhari said.

Mr Obasanjo has been one of the most vocal critics of Mr Buhari. He supported Atiku Abubakar for the 2019 presidential election. Mr Abubakar lost to Mr Buhari in results announced by the electoral commission, INEC.