Usman Bugaje third term claim alleges Obasanjo’s desperate push for tenure extension, citing bribery, threats and National Assembly resistance in 2006
Usman Bugaje third term claim has reignited Nigeria’s political history debate, as the former federal lawmaker insists that ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo made a serious attempt to extend his time in office beyond constitutional limits.
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Bugaje made the explosive accusation during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Monday, dismissing Obasanjo’s recent denial of ever seeking a third term.
“I can confirm to you that Obasanjo looked for a third term.
He did everything that he could within his power to get it, but he failed,” Bugaje said.
His claim directly contradicts Obasanjo’s remarks at a democracy forum in Ghana last week, where the ex-president said, “If I wanted a third term, I know how to go about it,” denying ever approaching anyone for support.
Bugaje, a member of the National Assembly during the controversial 2006 third term saga, accused Obasanjo’s loyalists of using intimidation and financial inducements to sway lawmakers.
He recalled how some legislators, including Senator Victor Lar, were allegedly forced into hiding to avoid coercion.
“Those who distributed money and issued threats are alive.
Those who refused the money are alive. It is incontrovertible — there’s no way he can deny it,” Bugaje declared.
The “third term agenda” emerged in 2006 as a constitutional amendment proposal that would have permitted a president to seek three consecutive terms.
The amendment was widely believed to be orchestrated by allies of Obasanjo, who was then in his second term.
Although the bid was ultimately rejected after fierce opposition from civil society, political leaders, and even members of Obasanjo’s own Peoples Democratic Party, the saga remains one of the most divisive political episodes in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Bugaje’s remarks add weight to past allegations. Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara previously claimed he was offered ₦250 million to support the third term bill — a claim he confirmed in a 2024 interview.
Similarly, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar stated that his close ties with lawmakers were instrumental in defeating the agenda.
Despite Obasanjo’s repeated denials — including in a 2023 New Year message where he claimed he was “audacious enough” to get a third term if he had truly wanted it — the resurfacing of testimonies such as Bugaje’s continues to stir public debate.
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As Nigeria prepares for new political chapters, the Usman Bugaje third term claim serves as a reminder of past democratic tensions and the need for transparency and constitutional integrity in governance.
