How Jimmy Carter helped secure my release from Abacha’s prison – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo paid tribute to his late friend, Jimmy Carter, the former President of the United States, during a memorial service on Sunday at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Describing Carter as a “titan and man of peace,” Obasanjo honored the legacy of the 39th President of the United States, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 in Plains, Georgia. Carter, known for his humanitarian efforts, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and left an enduring impact on global peace initiatives.

Obasanjo reflected on Carter’s exceptional character and unwavering commitment to justice. “He was a true friend, a man of conscience, and a tireless advocate for peace and human rights,” Obasanjo said.

In a poignant moment, Obasanjo shared a personal account of Carter’s role in his release from prison during the regime of General Sani Abacha. Obasanjo had been imprisoned on charges of plotting a coup under the military government.

“President Carter was one of the foreign friends who risked everything to save my life and fight for my release,” Obasanjo recalled. He recounted how Carter visited Nigeria and persuaded Abacha to move him from detention to house arrest on his farm, though this arrangement was short-lived.

Obasanjo noted that while many leaders and friends intervened on his behalf, Carter was the only non-African leader to visit Abacha specifically to plead for his release. “I will remain forever grateful to all who worked for my freedom,” Obasanjo added.

Obasanjo also shared Carter’s message about Ted Turner, the American media mogul and CNN founder, who played a key role in securing his release. “Carter told me, ‘Please see Ted Turner and thank him for his generosity. He came to me and asked me to get his friend, Obasanjo, released from prison. I will take care of him and his family here or wherever he chooses to live,’” Obasanjo recalled.

The tribute highlighted the deep friendship and lasting impact Carter had on Obasanjo’s life, and his commitment to justice and peace across the globe.