U.S. denies backing tenure extension for Obasanjo

By Francis Obinor

THE United States (U.S.) has refuted reports in some media (The Guardian not included) that it had fore knowledge and was in support of a possible extension of presidential terms in Nigeria.

Stressing that the reports were misleading and inaccurate, the Embassy in a statement yesterday said it was the Nigerian Constitution that limits terms of office and this was not the preoccupation of the U.S.

"America, as a close friend of Nigeria, will do all that it can to support the electoral process here. We also recognise and celebrate the important role that President Obasanjo has played in promoting stability in Africa, his microeconomic reforms as well as his efforts on behalf of better, more transparent governance during his years in office", the statement added.

The U.S. Ambassador, John Campbell, this week restated his home government's pledge to fully support Nigeria's electoral process ahead of next year's April presidential and general elections.

He said the U.S. would do all that it can to support the electoral process in the country.

President Obasanjo is constitutionally prevented from standing for re-election next year having served the limit of two four-year terms.

The U.S. recently hailed the Nigerian government, people and President Obasanjo, on their continued support to the promotion of democracy as it called for national elections next year.

It noted that the decision to "resolve the third term debate through constitutional means is a victory for democracy and the rule of law" which "provides a strong foundation for a peaceful and transparent election."

It added: "President Obasanjo wisely resisted the invitation to challenge this constitutional outcome on the issue of a third term. The American people place in high regard the deeply held commitment of the Nigerian people to bringing about change that is based on democratic values and practices."

Next year's constitutional presidential transition, the statement added, would mark the first time in the country's history that a civilian President would hand over power through democratic elections.

It noted that President Obasanjo was also Africa's first modern military leader to successfully guide the country's transition from military to civilian rule.

The statement stressed that the U.S. would continue to work with the Nigerian leader to promote freedom and democracy for the people of Nigeria and peace and stability in the region.

To foster this process in Nigeria, two U.S. agencies - the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI) - have stepped up their work with the political parties and non-governmental organisations.

They have also focused on strengthening the country's political parties as part of preparations for the upcoming polls.