Obasanjo Breaks Silence: Denies Third-Term Ambition, Blames Rumors on Governors Seeking Extended Tenures

In a recent interview on News Central, former President Olusegun Obasanjo addressed the long-standing controversy surrounding his alleged third-term bid. Obasanjo, who served as Nigeria’s president from 1999 to 2007, categorically denied ever pursuing a third term, contrary to claims made by his former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, and ex-Senate President Ken Nnamani.

“If I had wanted a third term, I would have gotten it. I didn’t want a third term,” Obasanjo stated, adding that certain governors who were covertly seeking tenure extensions fueled the rumors. According to him, these governors hoped that if he achieved a third term, they too would be granted extended terms.

Obasanjo highlighted that obtaining debt relief for Nigeria was a more formidable challenge than any third-term ambition. His administration successfully secured debt relief through diplomatic efforts with key nations, including France, England, Japan, and the United States, a feat he considers one of his administration’s most impactful achievements.

Atiku, who claims to have thwarted Obasanjo’s alleged third-term plan by leveraging his influence within the National Assembly, has maintained a strained relationship with his former boss since Obasanjo declined to back him as his successor. Likewise, Ken Nnamani stated that he sacrificed his senatorial ambition to prevent Obasanjo’s purported third-term agenda, asserting that despite incentives offered to lawmakers, he remained steadfast in blocking the plan.

Obasanjo’s latest remarks bring new perspectives to the enduring debate over his time in office, shedding light on both the political dynamics and his priorities during his presidency.