Yoruba-born former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has declared himself an adopted son of Oginibu, an Urhobo town in Ughelli South, Delta State.
He made this assertion while speaking at the 40th remembrance anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Robinson Ajeriyeghe Gbagi.
The ex-president described Chief Gbagi as a selfless, humble, honest and incorruptible politician who works selflessly for the unity and progress of Nigeria and Delta State.
He narrated his several encounters and relationship with Olorogun Gbagi, adding that it was difficult to find such a person who is people and development-oriented and who is committed to national and community development.
Obasanjo explained that he was amazed at the charity work Olorogun Gbagi has carried out in Oginibu and Ughievwen Kingdom, which, according to him, included providing scholarship for students of all levels of education from Ughievwen Kingdom, payment of WAEC enrolment fees for students of Oginibu Secondary School, building of ultra-modern community civic centre and several other works of charity.
The former president noted that Gbagi has brought unquantifiable development to Oginibu community and the entire Delta State.
He stated that with the development, the unity of purpose and the kindness of the Oginibu people, he had no option than to declare himself an adopted son of Oginibu.
Earlier during the review of a book titled: The Echoes of A Giant: Robinson Ajeriyegba Gbagi, written by Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi on his father, the reviewer Dr. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Head of Department of Mass Communication and Director of Pre-Degree Programme, Delta State University, said Pa Robinson Gbagi was, by all standards during his day in the colonial era, a very successful and disciplined man whom every person working in the present day judicial system should emulate.
The event was graced by dignitaries from both within and outside Nigeria, including the Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese Bishop, Most Reverend Dr. John Okeoghene Afareha, Archbishop Goddowell Avwomakpa, Archbishop Solomon Gbakara, Justice Akpovi, former Minister of Niger-Delta Affairs, Chief Steve Oru, the former Managing Director of Arik Air, Chris Ndulue former MD of Arik Air, Lebanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Houssam Diab.