Obasanjo to Kukah: ‘I will get to the Kingdom of Heaven before you’

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Friday, playfully declared that he would make it to heaven before the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah.

Speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of renowned journalist and broadcaster, Dr Reuben Abati, in Lagos, Obasanjo drew laughter from the audience as he jested about his “heavenly advantage” over Bishop Kukah.

“I will get to the kingdom of heaven before you,” Obasanjo said, looking at Kukah.

“Not because I will die before you since you are younger, but because of the grace of God,” he added.

The light-hearted comment was made during a lively moment at the event, which was attended by prominent personalities from the media, politics, and religious circles.

Turning to the celebrant, Obasanjo paid glowing tributes to Abati, whom he described as a man of many talents-a journalist, television host, commentator, community leader, politician, and now, an accomplished author.

“Reuben, you and your colleagues have done remarkably well,” Obasanjo said, adding that “You have achieved much and continue to inspire many through your intellect and dedication. You have made progress, but now it is time to achieve success.”

The former president, who has known Abati for about three decades, commended him for embodying the values of truth, discipline, and purpose, which he described as essential attributes for meaningful achievement in life.

“I am proud that, in my lifetime, I can say I have a son in Reuben who understands, who has been recognised, and who is firmly on the path to success,” he added.

The event, which celebrated Abati’s 60th milestone, also featured goodwill messages from friends, colleagues, and dignitaries who lauded his contributions to journalism and national discourse.