I’m Fearless, Would’ve Gotten 3rd Term If I So Desired – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says securing a third term in office as Nigeria’s president would have been easy if he so desperately wanted it as being touted by some critics.

Describing himself as audacious enough, he 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, who spoke at a virtual meeting organised by Africa Leadership Group on Thursday, laughed off claims that he was interested in a third term agenda as President, saying such skewed idea only exist in the imagination of many that were bent on tarnishing his image.

Addressing issues around the 1999 constitution as amended, Chief Obasanjo also said that no constitution was perfect and canvassed for an amendment of the constitution.

“Some people blame the constitution for everything in Nigeria. Of course, our constitution is not perfect, and there is no constitution that is sacrosanct and it can be amended”, he said.

The man, popularly called ‘Ota Farmer’ by many admirers and critics alike, said part of what should be included in the amended constitution is the devolution of power.

On the 2023 general elections, Obasanjo said he will not join the campaign train of the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, saying he has done his best by writing his endorsement.

In his New Year message to Nigerians titled “My appeal to all Nigerians particularly young Nigerians,” Chief Obasanjo had endorsed Obi for presidency.

However, the former President said, “I am not in campaign train. I’ve used benefit of my experience and I’ve put plainly. I do not belong to any political party. I will not join any campaign train. I’ve said what is best for the country.”

While also commenting on the qualities of an ideal President for Nigeria Chief Obasanjo said; “Nigeria is where we are because of leadership. We must decisively look for men and women who have the character, attributes, skill and attitude that we need for leadership, that will deliver in this country.”

And going down memory lane, the Ota-born Elder Statesman said he had no regrets leading Nigeria as it’s President.