Speaking on recent occurrence of coup d’etat in some African countries, Obasanjo declared that any condition that encouraged such on the continent should be avoided as much as possible.

‘The rising case of military coups in Africa shows that the people are tired of some things in their countries and in need of liberators,” he added.

Obasanjo however noted that he would not support a coup d’etat considering his experience in the hands of a former Nigerian Head of State, the late Gen. Sani Abacha.JAMB Portal

He called on governments of various African countries, including Nigeria, to ensure they did not push the youths to the point of preferring a military take-over in view of their policies.

“The point is, do we have conditions that encourage the type of things that are happening? If we don’t have the conditions that encourage them, they may not happen.

“That does not mean it should be encouraged. What it means is that we should make sure that we do everything to prevent military take-overs from happening.NYSC Portal

“When you see things that happen in many countries, and I will not exclude Nigeria, then you wonder. But, don’t forget particularly the youths, they support most of these military take-overs,” the former Nigerian leader said.

Obasanjo then called on African leaders with a sit-tight mentality to have a change of heart, adding that democracy which works for everyone should be encouraged.

“One, let me make it clear, I do not support a coup d’etat. Because, personally, I have been a victim of a coup d’etat.

“Two, the good thing about democracy, if it works and delivers, is that you can sit down and dialogue and debate and discuss.JAMB Result

“But your democracy must take integrity along with it. Your democracy must take honesty along with it. Your democracy must take character along with it.

“Your democracy must take those attributes, God-given attributes, inclusive society, no marginalisation, no exclusion and no favouritism.”