Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has recounted how he narrowly escaped a deadly plot allegedly orchestrated by late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, to eliminate him, the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, and former Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

Speaking over the weekend at Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise, Imo State, during the dedication of a state-of-the-art Assemblies of God Church building The Noah’s Ark built and donated by philanthropist and real estate developer, Engr. Success Obioma Akagburuonye, Obasanjo said his survival was by the special grace of God.

According to him, “When I was arrested, I initially thought it was a mistake. But I later realised it was part of a calculated plan. Abacha had concluded that for him to remain in power perpetually, certain individuals had to be eliminated.”

“He boasted that three of us MKO Abiola, Shehu Yar’Adua, and myself would not leave prison alive. Two of them didn’t make it out. I did, not by my strength, but by God’s amazing grace.”

The former president recalled his prayers during detention, likening them to that of the biblical Stephen, but with a personal twist.
“I said, ‘Whether they know what they are doing or not, God, please forgive them.’ I surrendered completely to God,” he said.

Highlighting God’s continued mercy throughout his life, Obasanjo added, “If anyone has experienced the amazing grace of God, it’s me. Sometimes, I feel God has been partial in taking care of me.”

He cited a course he attended in Ghana in 1959, noting that out of nine Nigerians who completed the program, only two including himself are still alive today.
“I am not mocking those who have passed on; may their souls rest in peace. But I am simply acknowledging the grace of God in my life. It’s not that I am better than them it’s just grace.”

Obasanjo praised Engr. Akagburuonye for his unwavering commitment to God’s work, describing the magnificent church building as a testament to divine favour. He also knelt to honour Akagburuonye’s 104-year-old mother, saying he was tapping into her grace of long life.

The Noah’s Ark designed as a replica of the biblical vessel in both form and symbolism was commissioned on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Located in the tranquil village of Ogbor Uvuru, the dedication drew a large crowd of worshippers, pilgrims, and dignitaries.

Among those in attendance were Rev. Dr. Sarah Seoh from Los Angeles, USA; Rev. Abel Ukachi Amadi, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Church Nigeria; traditional rulers; captains of industry; and political leaders, including Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.