Political activist and former federal lawmaker, Dr. Usman Bugaje, has challenged former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s denial of pursuing a third term in office, insisting that intimidation and financial inducements were central to the failed agenda.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, September 22, Bugaje said lawmakers at the time had “first-hand knowledge” of the plot.
“I can confirm to you that Obasanjo sought a third term. He did everything within his power to achieve it, but he failed,” Bugaje declared.
He dismissed Obasanjo’s defense that he never personally placed phone calls to push the bid, saying such a claim was immaterial.
“The fact that he did not make a particular call to anyone is not sufficient proof that he wasn’t behind it. It was simply a matter of style. We in the National Assembly knew beyond doubt that he worked day and night. Many of us were threatened by his agents,” he explained.
Bugaje recalled instances of harassment, citing Senator Victor Lar, then leader of the Northern caucus in the House of Representatives, who was forced into hiding ahead of a crucial meeting resisting the third-term proposal.
“Those who distributed the money are alive. Those who received the money are alive. Those who refused to take it are also alive. There is sufficient evidence. This matter is incontrovertible — there is no way he can deny it,” he added.
The third-term controversy erupted in 2006, when allies of Obasanjo pushed for a constitutional amendment to extend the presidential limit from two to three consecutive terms.
The move sparked nationwide resistance from civil society groups, lawmakers, and even factions within the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Bugaje’s claims echo earlier revelations by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, who said he rejected a ₦250 million bribe linked to the amendment, and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who credited his alliance with National Assembly members for helping block Obasanjo’s bid.
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