Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised former military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, to brace for a mix of praise and criticism following the release of his autobiography, A Journey in Service.
Speaking at the book launch, which also featured a fundraising event for a presidential library, Obasanjo commended Babangida for contributing to both history and its documentation.
“You have not only contributed to history, but you have also contributed to documenting history,” Obasanjo said while chairing the event.
He emphasized the importance of accurate record-keeping in nation-building and urged Babangida not to be discouraged by critics.
“Please don’t be unduly worried about critics and the ‘pull-him-down’ syndrome. It may even be an indication of success, but take note of objective criticism,” he advised.
Obasanjo recalled an instance where the late activist and lawyer, Tunji Braithwaite, condemned one of his books without reading it.
“A chronic critic of mine, the late Tunji Braithwaite—may his soul rest in peace—was asked if he had read my book after condemning it. He admitted he had not but insisted that since Obasanjo wrote it, it must be condemned.”
Obasanjo’s remarks underscored the reality that public figures, especially those in leadership, will always face varying opinions about their legacies.
