Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has lamented losing his parents at a young age, saying they did not live long enough to enjoy the fruits of their labour.
The former Nigerian leader made this known at an event to celebrate his 81st birthday which held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State on Monday.
He said that while he thanked God for how far He has taken him, his only regret was that his parents were not alive to see how much he has achieved.
He said, “One thing I always miss and remember is that my parents left this world too early. The sacrifice they made, they did not wait to see the results. How I wish they had waited to see and eat fruits of their labour.”
However, Obasanjo said he has since taken solace in the Yoruba proverb that says that the dead look back and see deeds occurring after them on earth.
“But going by what Yoruba believe and say, that the dead always watch over their beloved ones and see happenings around them, I am convinced that my parents are happy in their graves, as they watch over me,” he stated.
Also, Obasanjo expressed gratitude to his loyal associates, workers and family who stood by him through thick and thin.
He said he could not have gone so far without their unflinching support and encouragement.
The former president advised people to always seek to serve humanity at every given opportunity, saying that no one could truly claim to serve God with serving humanity.