Former President Obasanjo launches his autobiography in Lagos

Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Tuesday, launched his autobiography.

Titled: ‘My Watch’, the book that will attract readership from far and near, was launched at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.

Newswatch Times gathered that the book was initially scheduled for launch on Thursday, but was shifted backward, which observers assumed that it may not be unconnected with a court order barring him from launching the book in Lagos.

Newswatch Times further learnt that My Watch’s printed copies were already in circulation while the electronic version, which may be soon released online.

In his review of the book, the Principal Partner at Nextier Capital Limited, Mr. Patrick Okigbo, said ‘My Watch’ is an account of Obasanjo’s relentless journey and struggle in life to excel and do good for the majority of people. “It captures my commitment to Nigeria, my country, to put it on course and move it forward at a steady and good pace in unity, stability, dignity, integrity, justice, equity, comprehensive development and durable progress.”

Obasanjo almost touched every aspect of national life in Nigeria in the book by focusing on some reforms including economic, financial management, social welfare, civil service, administrative enhancement, fuel energy and power reforms, conflict resolution and the truth and reconciliation commission and so on.

Okigbo revealed that the author left no one in doubt that he considers the current administration inept and a colossal failure and wishes to see some significant changes.

The first of the books, according to him, which comes in three volumes, focuses on his early years and military days while the second book focuses on his military career, combat operations in Congo, the first military coup, his close friendship with Chukwuma Nzeogwu – leader of the 1966 coup – his command during the Nigerian civil war and his first time as military head of state.

Okigbo maintained that “The book is very important because it may motivate the various political actors who have been taciturn on the inner workings of government to defend their integrity, explain their actions, and provide context. Readers should eagerly await the subsequent dialogue that is sure to ensue.”

 The event was attended former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Ibidapo Obe, former minister of Education and Vice President of the World Bank, Oby Ezekwesili and several others dignitaries.