Political activist and former federal lawmaker, Dr. Usman Bugaje, has rejected former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s denial of seeking a third term, insisting the ex-leader “did everything within his power” to extend his stay in office.
Obasanjo, speaking at a democracy dialogue hosted by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Ghana last week, said no Nigerian could claim he ever approached them to push for the controversial extension.
Bugaje, however, said on Arise TV’s Morning Show that lawmakers had direct knowledge of the third-term agenda, alleging intimidation and bribery attempts during the process.
He recalled how some legislators, including Senator Victor Lar, faced threats and even went into hiding.
According to him, “those who distributed the money and those who rejected it are alive,” stressing that the evidence was undeniable.
The third-term debate climaxed in 2006 when a proposed constitutional amendment to allow presidents three consecutive terms was struck down.