Obasanjo reveals how he brokered Ruto-Raila deal
By Aloys Michael, October 19, 2025Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has narrated a defining moment when he helped broker a deal between President William Ruto and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in February 2024.
Speaking on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the state funeral held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Obasanjo emotionally recounted the behind-the-scenes negotiations in Mombasa that brought Kenya’s political rivals together, ushering in a new era of inclusion and stability.
“In February last year, I sat with Raila and President Ruto in Mombasa. That day changed the course of Kenya’s politics. Ruto made space for the opposition in government. It was a pleasant day not just for Raila and Ruto, but for all Kenyans,” he revealed.
The former Nigerian Head of State said the moment was not just a milestone for Kenya, but a powerful lesson for the continent.
“It is a lesson for me, and for all of us in Africa. A lesson in understanding, tolerance, love, and accommodation. That our nation, our continent, is bigger than any one individual or group of individuals,” he said.
Obasanjo, a revered elder statesman across Africa, said the successful mediation between Raila and Ruto stood as a testament to Raila’s character, a leader willing to put country above self.
Obasanjo spoke fondly of his decades-long friendship with Raila, recalling their first deep interaction in 1994 when he was invited as a special guest to attend the funeral of Raila’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
“Raila made that happen. Since then, our friendship has only deepened. We worked together for our two countries, for Africa, and for the world. I have come to know Raila very well,” Obasanjo revealed.
“Raila was a man passionate about love for his country and for Africa. That is what made our relationship continue to grow, that shared commitment,” he said.
Obasanjo also paid tribute to Raila’s personality, recalling how the late leader always brought lightness to tense moments.
“I loved his sense of humour. No matter how serious things were, Raila would find a way to reduce the tension. I have lost a brother, a friend, a confidant, and a co-worker,” Obasanjo stated.