Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has dismissed long-standing claims that he tried to extend his tenure, insisting he never sought a third term in office.
Speaking at the democracy dialogue organised by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Accra, Ghana, Obasanjo said no Nigerian, living or dead, can truthfully claim he solicited support for a third-term agenda.
“I’m not a fool. If I wanted a third term, I know how to go about it. And there is no Nigerian, dead or alive, who can say I called him to seek support,” he said.
Obasanjo argued that securing Nigeria’s historic debt relief during his administration was a far greater challenge than pursuing an extra term.
“If I could get debt relief, which was more difficult than getting a third term, then if I wanted a third term, I would have got it too,” he added.
The former president warned African leaders against clinging to power, saying the belief in one’s indispensability is a “sin against God.”
Also speaking at the event, former President Goodluck Jonathan said leaders who fail to deliver should be voted out if credible elections are held. He described electoral malpractice as one of the greatest threats to democracy on the continent.
“Democracy in Africa is going through a period of strain and risks collapse unless stakeholders come together to rethink and reform it,” Jonathan said.
“Our people want their votes to count, equitable representation, quality education, security, good healthcare, jobs and dignity. When leaders fail to meet these basic needs, citizens become disillusioned.”
Jonathan urged political actors to strengthen electoral systems and embrace a model of democracy that reflects Africa’s realities and safeguards the future of its youth.
