Laolu Akande, former spokesman to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as the most successful Nigerian leader since 1999, but also criticized him for using bully tactics in pursuit of a third-term agenda.
Akande made the comments during an appearance on Channels Television’s political program, Inside Sources, where he offered his assessment of Nigeria’s democratic leaders since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
“Ex-President Obasanjo is about the best-performing president since 1999. We cannot deny that,” Akande said. “And it’s not easy even for me to say that because I saw another administration closely. But we must be honest — Obasanjo’s government achieved more than others.”
Obasanjo, a former military ruler who later served as a civilian president from 1999 to 2007, is widely credited with introducing key economic reforms, launching anti-corruption campaigns, and significantly reducing Nigeria’s debt burden during his time in office.
But Akande said the former leader often used intimidation and loud rhetoric to dominate political conversations and push through his political objectives.
“We must understand Obasanjo’s strategy. He knows he has the bully pulpit, and he uses it effectively. He raises his voice because those who would challenge him don’t have the same platform or influence,” Akande explained.
Akande’s remarks come amid renewed debate over Obasanjo’s alleged third-term bid. Though the former president has repeatedly denied the allegations, multiple reports from the mid-2000s claim he attempted to amend the constitution to extend his stay in office beyond the two terms allowed.
It was widely reported at the time that Obasanjo’s allies in the National Assembly tried to push through the constitutional changes, allegedly with financial inducements. However, the plan was rejected by lawmakers, and Obasanjo left office in 2007 after completing two terms.
Akande said Obasanjo’s alleged third-term push was enabled by his ability to bully those in power, suggesting that his influence prevented an effective opposition from stopping him early.
“He used his position to push his agenda knowing full well that his opponents didn’t have the same reach or voice,” he said.
Obasanjo remains a controversial but influential figure in Nigerian politics. While many praise his achievements, especially in stabilizing Nigeria’s economy and restoring global credibility, others criticize him for alleged power abuse, manipulation, and interference in democratic processes.
Akande’s comments have once again stirred conversation on social media, with Nigerians debating the former president’s legacy, leadership style, and impact on the country’s democracy.
For now, Obasanjo has not responded to Akande’s latest claims, but he has in the past insisted that the third-term allegations were false and politically motivated.
