OONI OF IFE BACKS OBASANJO EXTENSION

C O N F I D E N T I A L LAGOS 001865

SIPDIS

STATE FOR AF/W
STATE FOR INR/AA

E.O. 12958: DECL: 12/08/2015
TAGS: PREL PGOV NI
SUBJECT: OONI OF IFE BACKS OBASANJO EXTENSION


Classified By: Consul General Brian L. Browne for Reason 1.4 (D)


1. (C) In a November meeting, Consul General visited the
Ooni of Ife, the most prominent Yoruba traditional ruler and
one of the most influential traditional rulers in the
country. The Ooni is unabashedly pro-Obasanjo and his
leanings were quite apparent in his reflections on current
political outlook. On the economic front, the Ooni urged the
USG to proactively broaden business interests in Nigeria
beyond the energy sector. He suggested establishing a
private sector blue chip committee to encourage greater U.S.
investment in the country. The Ooni was particularly unhappy
with China's inroads into Nigeria's economy, and warned that
their growing influence was inimical to both Nigeria's and
the U.S.'s long-term interest.


2. (C) The Ooni further predicted none of the big names
currently floated as likely presidential successors -- Atiku,
Babangida, and Buhari -- would prevail. He thought the next
president would emerge from the relatively small stable of
Nigerians who have shown themselves to be genuine advocates
and practitioners of reform.


3. (C) The Ooni's most intriguing insight was that President
Obasanjo was energetically pursuing a constitutional
amendment to extend his current term by two years. Two
additional years would be sufficient time for the President's
reforms to take root and for Obasanjo to groom a compatible
successor. Then Obasanjo could leave office secure in the
knowledge that his work would not be undone, the Ooni
asserted.


4. (C) Comment: The Ooni is influential in the Southwest
and he is a close ally and advisor to President Obasanjo.
While the details of the proposed presidential extension may
differ, the Ooni joins a growing list of interlocutors who
state that Obasanjo will attempt to remain in office beyond
2007 if the price for the extension is not too high. End
comment.
BROWNE