Obasanjo Rejects Osoba’s 2003 Allegations, Defends Political Dealings With AD Leaders

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has strongly rejected allegations by former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba that he deceived leaders of the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD) ahead of the 2003 general elections, insisting that his political engagements were guided by national unity rather than deception.

In a detailed response titled “Reply to Your Inaccurate Posture: ‘How Obasanjo Deceived Us in 2003′”, Obasanjo described Osoba’s claims as inaccurate and “far-fetched.” He maintained that he never misled AD leaders and had always presented his political intentions honestly, regardless of whose interests were affected.

The former president explained that following his release from prison, he held consultations with prominent political figures across the country before joining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He said he repeatedly sought the support of the late Chief Abraham Adesanya and other Afenifere leaders, despite being advised that the Yoruba political establishment would not support his presidential ambition.

Obasanjo also defended his decision to invite members of the AD to participate in his administration after the 1999 elections, arguing that the move was intended to promote national cohesion rather than political expediency.

He further dismissed suggestions that Afenifere or the six South-West governors attempted to dictate the direction of his government, insisting that such a claim was unrealistic given the broader political support his administration enjoyed.

Addressing the events surrounding the 2003 elections, Obasanjo maintained that the defeat of five AD governors in the South-West resulted primarily from political realities and campaign shortcomings, not any deliberate betrayal on his part.

He also alleged that then Vice President Atiku Abubakar had supported efforts to impeach him during his first term and pursued separate political arrangements with opposition figures ahead of the 2007 succession battle.

Despite the sharp disagreement, Obasanjo acknowledged Osoba’s contributions to Ogun State, particularly his approval of land for the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta.

He concluded by urging political leaders to embrace reconciliation, gratitude and mutual respect, stressing that political rivalry should not permanently damage personal relationships.