Edo Unveils Upgraded Stella Obasanjo Hospital As Obasanjo Reflects on Late Wife’s Role in Securing His Release from Prison
By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde
Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo has shared how his late wife, Stella Obasanjo, sought the support of global leaders to secure his release from prison.
Obasanjo, who was jailed by the military regime of General Sani Abacha in 1995 on charges of an alleged coup plot, recalled his wife’s relentless campaign for his freedom during a speech in Benin City at the inauguration of the newly expanded and upgraded Stella Hospital by the Edo State Government.
Reflecting on Stella’s unwavering dedication, Obasanjo said, "While I was in prison, she left no stone unturned, traveling across continents—from Europe to Japan, Latin America to Africa, and even to the Vatican to plead for my release.
"Her prayers, along with those of others, were answered, and I was released.”
The former president expressed his gratitude to the Edo State Government for honoring Stella’s memory by naming the hospital after her. He described his late wife as a "mighty woman" whose contributions were invaluable to his presidency, and he emphasized that she deserved recognition both in life and in death.
Obasanjo also highlighted the importance of human capital development, particularly in health, nutrition, and education, for the progress of any nation.
"You can’t achieve much on an empty stomach," he said, underscoring food and nutrition as foundational to health and well-being. He added that health is essential for economic growth, as a healthy population strengthens a nation.
Additionally, Governor Godwin Obaseki said the hospital's transformation into a world-class facility was spurred by its role as an isolation center during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now a 300-bed specialist hospital with an additional 20-bed emergency isolation unit, it is equipped with modern facilities to address a wide range of health needs.
Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, also attended the inauguration, commending the Edo State Government for preserving Stella's legacy through the hospital’s modernization, which she noted would benefit residents of Edo State and beyond.
What's Your Reaction?
