Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has firmly rejected circulating reports suggesting he had authored a notice of his own impending death, branding the claims as the work of “never-do-wells” intent on mischief.
The 88-year-old elder statesman addressed the false rumors during remarks in Abeokuta, where a fabricated document purportedly excerpted from his latest memoirs had spread rapidly across social media platforms and WhatsApp groups.
The viral piece claimed to be Obasanjo’s “final memoir,” presented in a reflective tone without his characteristic criticisms or jibes, and implied he was announcing his demise.
According to Daily Post reports, Truth Live News learnt that Obasanjo described the circulating material as entirely fake, insisting it reflected the ill wishes of detractors rather than divine will. He emphasized his continued vitality and divine assurance of a prolonged life.
“For my final note in this address, I want to point your attention to the work of some never-do-wells,” Obasanjo stated. “They publish and circulate a fake paper credited to me, claiming that I am writing and giving notice of my death, pafuka. That is their wish and surely not God’s wish for me. God has assured me that He has more for me to do on earth, and He has given me the wherewithal to do it. And those who wish otherwise are going to be dealt with by God Himself. I dey kampe as usual. God bless.”
The phrase “I dey kampe” a Pidgin expression meaning “I am strong” or “I am very much alive and kicking” underscored his defiant dismissal of the speculation. The rumors emerged just ahead of Obasanjo’s 89th birthday on March 5, 2026, adding to the timing’s sensitivity.
This is not the first instance of death rumors targeting the former leader, who has previously debunked similar false claims on social media. Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s president from 1999 to 2007 and earlier as military head of state, remains an influential voice in national affairs despite his retirement from active politics.
