Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed the pivotal role he played in brokering a landmark political agreement between President William Ruto and the late Raila Odinga in February 2024 — a deal that transformed Kenya’s political landscape.
Speaking during Raila Odinga’s state funeral at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Obasanjo recounted the behind-the-scenes negotiations in Mombasa, where he sat down with both leaders to forge a unity pact.
“That day changed the course of Kenya’s politics,” Obasanjo said. “Ruto made space for the opposition in government. It was a pleasant day not just for Raila and Ruto — but for all Kenyans.”
He praised Raila as a leader who consistently put country before self, describing the late opposition figure as a “brother, friend, and confidant.” Obasanjo, visibly emotional, reflected on their three-decade friendship, which began in 1994 during the funeral of Raila’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
“I loved his sense of humour. No matter how serious things were, Raila would find a way to reduce the tension,” he said.
The funeral, attended by thousands, marked the end of Kenya’s official mourning period for the iconic statesman, who led the opposition for over 40 years and remained a powerful voice for democracy, inclusion, and pan-Africanism.
High-profile mourners included President Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and Speakers of both Houses of Parliament, alongside a host of international dignitaries.
Obasanjo called the unity deal a lesson for all of Africa:
“A lesson in understanding, tolerance, love, and accommodation. Our continent is bigger than any one individual.”
