Obasanjo and the Dawn of Democracy: Nigeria's First Free Election in 1999

Obasanjo and the Dawn of Democracy: Nigeria's First Free Election in 1999

Introduction

On May 29, 1999, Nigeria turned a historic page. After decades of military rule and political turbulence, the country witnessed the inauguration of a democratically elected president—Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. His victory in the 1999 general elections marked the beginning of the Fourth Republic and is widely regarded as Nigeria's first truly free and fair election in its modern history.

Background: Years of Military Rule

Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria had been trapped in a cycle of coups and short-lived civilian governments. By the late 1990s, the country had endured nearly 30 years of military dominance. The sudden death of military dictator General Sani Abacha in 1998 opened a rare window for democratic transition. His successor, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, committed to restoring civilian rule and organized elections for early 1999.

The Man of the Moment: Olusegun Obasanjo

Obasanjo, a former military head of state from 1976 to 1979, had voluntarily handed over power to a civilian government decades earlier—a rare act in African history at the time. After spending years in prison under Abacha for allegedly plotting a coup, Obasanjo emerged as a symbol of national unity and reconciliation. Running under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), his candidacy was seen by many as a bridge between the military and the civilian population.

The 1999 Election

Held in February 1999, the presidential election was the climax of a broader transition that included legislative and gubernatorial polls. Obasanjo faced Chief Olu Falae, a former finance minister and technocrat, who ran under the umbrella of a coalition between the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the All People’s Party (APP).

Despite reports of irregularities in some regions, both local and international observers described the elections as relatively free and credible—especially compared to Nigeria’s previous polls.

Obasanjo won with 62% of the vote, signaling a national desire for stability, unity, and democratic governance.

Significance of the Victory

Obasanjo's inauguration on May 29, 1999, represented more than a change of leadership; it symbolized a rebirth for Nigeria. The country rejoined the global democratic community, and hope was rekindled among Nigerians yearning for a break from decades of authoritarian rule.

His victory was also notable for its regional implications: a Yoruba man winning the presidency with support from northern and eastern regions demonstrated a fragile but promising national cohesion.

Legacy and Reflection

Obasanjo’s election laid the foundation for over two decades of uninterrupted civilian rule—a remarkable feat considering Nigeria’s previous history. While his presidency had its controversies, the peaceful transfer of power in 1999 remains one of the most significant milestones in Nigeria’s political evolution.

Conclusion

The 1999 election, and Obasanjo’s emergence as president, marked a turning point in Nigeria’s journey toward democracy. It was not just a win for a man or a party—it was a victory for the Nigerian people’s resilience and aspiration for a better future.

Key Facts

Election Date: February 27, 1999

Winner: Olusegun Obasanjo (PDP) – 62%

Runner-up: Olu Falae (AD/APP alliance) – 38%

Inauguration: May 29, 1999

Historical Note: First credible election in Nigeria since independence in 1960

International Observers: UN, EU, Commonwealth, Carter Center