A former Nigerian military leader has advised President Olusegun Obasanjo against seeking a third term in office, a move not permitted under Nigeria's constitution.
Yakubu Gowon said leaders must avoid the tendency of prolonging their terms or overstaying their acceptability.
Mr. Gowon took power in a military coup in 1966 but was overthrown in a military coup in 1975 after announcing plans to extend his rule.
Speculation has surfaced that Mr. Obasanjo will seek a third term when his mandate expires in May, 2007. He has refused to directly answer questions on whether he will do so.
But recent statements from ruling party officials and a Senate committee recommendation indicate efforts are under way to remove the two-term limit in Nigeria's constitution, thus allowing Mr. Obasanjo to run for a third term.