At the Democracy Dialogue in Accra, Olusegun Obasanjo dismissed claims he sought a third term, stressing that securiFormer President Olusegun Obasanjo has again dismissed allegations that he sought a third term in office, stressing that no Nigerian could truthfully say he lobbied for their support. Speaking at the Democracy Dialogue in Accra, he argued that securing debt relief for Nigeria was far more difficult than any third term ambition.
“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, that would say I called him and told him I wanted a third term,” Obasanjo said.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, also speaking at the event, warned that democracy in Africa faces collapse unless electoral systems are reformed to ensure credibility and inclusiveness.
Nigeria’s Long History of Power Struggles
Obasanjo has repeatedly rejected suggestions of a third term agenda since leaving office in 2007. Allegations first surfaced during constitutional reform debates under his administration. Jonathan’s remarks add to concerns from ECOWAS and civil society leaders, including Bishop Matthew Kukah, who stressed that democracy must go beyond elections to embody accountability and service.
Africa’s Political Stability at Stake
Jonathan warned that electoral manipulation remains the greatest threat to African democracy. He insisted that citizens’ expectations—credible votes, inclusivity, jobs, and security—must be met or risk disillusionment and instability. The dialogue signals renewed urgency for electoral reforms as Nigeria and the wider region move toward critical 2027 elections.
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