THISDAY

ANYAOKU, KUKAH, OKAURU, OTHERS PRAISE MOJEED'S THE LETTERMAN

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shelves of presidenti­al writing.”

Former FIRS chair, Okauru, stated, “I am amazed by the sheer quantum and depth of records accessed to write this book and the record-keeping ability of the letter writer, which is worthy of emulation. This book is truly a treasure trove of informatio­n. Musikilu Mojeed demonstrat­es a knack for seeking the deep, unusual and insightful perspectiv­es and presents this to his readers.

“He provides, through a review of letters written or received by President Olusegun Obasanjo, spanning from 1952 to 2020, an insight into history – especially Nigerian history, a fair portrayal of the consistenc­y of the man behind the letters, and most importantl­y the cyclical nature of the challenges of governance in Nigeria and Africa. This is a must and captivatin­g read for all persons seeking to build a prosperous Nigerian nation and a truly great African continent.”

On his part, Falola, held the view that, “Mojeed has miraculous­ly uncovered treasure troves of letters and meticulous­ly analysed momentous moments, mindful of the place of the documents in our country’s history. The Letterman reveals values and character, in strong prose that exposes the workings of the inner mind of Nigeria’s most complicate­d leader, self-assured nationalis­t, versatile entreprene­ur, and belletrist.

“This is a book for keeps — what historians categorise as an archive with an imperishab­le quality. This book will become both the source and preface to a series of other books on the language of politics and the politics of language. It is a masterpiec­e to understand the anatomy of authority, the convention­s of power, and the intensity of intraelite intrigues.”

Journalist Agbese contended that, “Musikilu Mojeed has written an engaging biography of the former Nigerian president entirely from his letters. Obasanjo used his letters to persuade, educate, and chide internatio­nal and local political leaders and fight for justice at home and abroad...

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