If I wanted Third Term, nothing could have stopped me – Obasanjo
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has once again dismissed allegations that he sought a third term in office.
Speaking at a virtual event organized by the Africa Leadership Group, Obasanjo stated emphatically that had he desired to extend his presidency past the constitutionally permitted two terms, he would have achieved it.
During the event themed “Leadership and Nation-Building,” Obasanjo said, “I never asked for a third term. If I wanted a third term, I would have got it. I am audacious enough to know how to get it.”
Obasanjo emphasised that the narrative around third-term ambition originated largely from political actors, including some governors who, he said, thought their own tenure extensions might follow if he had stayed in power.
He also drew attention to his administration’s achievement in securing significant debt relief from France, England, Japan, and the United States, arguing that such diplomatic and economic endeavours were far more complex than attempting to change presidential term limits.
Moreover, Obasanjo reiterated his stance that no Nigerian, living or dead, has evidence that he formally discussed or initiated any third-term plan.
The former president used the opportunity to comment more broadly on leadership in Nigeria.
He said no constitution is perfect and advocated for amendment, including the devolution of power, to enhance democratic governance.
Observers said Obasanjo’s statement revives a controversy that first flared in 2006 when there was public uproar over perceived attempts by some political forces to extend his tenure through constitutional amendment.
The National Assembly eventually rejected the proposal.
