Post by Ibadan Watch (@Ibadanwatch)

Abdulsalami Reveals Why He Advised Obasanjo Against 1999 Presidential Race.

Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has disclosed that he advised Olusegun Obasanjo not to contest the 1999 presidential election after his release from prison. In his autobiography, Call of Duty, Abdulsalami said he encouraged Obasanjo to focus on rebuilding his life and avoid both legal action against the government and active politics after years of detention.

Despite the advice, Obasanjo entered the race, secured the PDP ticket, and became Nigeria’s first democratically elected president of the Fourth Republic. Abdulsalami rejected claims that his administration sponsored Obasanjo’s emergence, insisting the government neither endorsed nor campaigned for him, although some influential Nigerians privately encouraged his candidacy.

The former military leader explained that Obasanjo’s release was part of a broader reconciliation process following the death of Sani Abacha. He also revealed that his administration adjusted party registration guidelines to accommodate the Alliance for Democracy, promoting inclusiveness during the transition to civilian rule.

Abdulsalami maintained that he never considered remaining in power and viewed the 1999 handover as essential for restoring democracy and national stability.

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