Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his shock and disappointment over the false social media rumours claiming his death.
Obasanjo, who was recently informed of the baseless claims circulating on social media, shared his surprise during the commissioning of the Old Garage-Oke Fia-LAMECO Road in Osogbo, Osun State, on Tuesday.
The event was part of ongoing infrastructure development spearheaded by Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The former president revealed that a close associate had called him early in the morning, urging him to check social media where he saw the false report of his demise.
He quickly reassured his family and inner circle that the rumours were untrue, emphasizing that those wishing him dead would not succeed, according to Politics Nigeria.
““I was called early in the morning by a close ally, asking me to check social media,” Obasanjo revealed.
“I was surprised when I saw the rumour claiming I had died at midnight. I couldn’t believe it.
“I told my family and friends not to be alarmed. Those wishing me dead will not have their way,” he said
Obasanjo also raised concerns about the motivations behind such harmful speculation and condemned the misuse of social media to spread falsehoods.
He expressed disappointment over the growing trend of fake news and stressed the importance of using technology responsibly.
During the event, Obasanjo commended Governor Adeleke for his achievements in Osun State, highlighting the governor’s performance and predicting his re-election for a second term.
He praised Adeleke for disproving critics who had doubted his abilities when he first took office.
In a related development, Governor Adeleke named the newly commissioned road after the late Asiwaju of Osogboland, Abdulfatai Adekileku Ajani Badmus, in recognition of his contributions.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing Osogbo and Osun State for the benefit of future generations.
Adeleke also expressed gratitude to Obasanjo for his continuous support and guidance, describing it as an honor to have the former president commission the completed road project. The road is part of Adeleke’s broader infrastructure agenda to enhance the state’s road networks.
