Nigerian leader candidate for second term

ABUJA, Nigeria -- Nigeria's first civilian president in nearly two decades declared his candidacy Thursday for a second term, saying more must be done to restore the prominence of Africa's most populous nation.

Pledging to overcome Nigeria's history of political and military turmoil that has interrupted several past elections, Olusegun Obasanjo asked voters that this time, elections be peaceful.

Obasanjo's declaration comes three years into a first term of sweeping gains in personal liberties in the West African nation -- but only modest improvements in clean government, and amid surging ethnic and religious violence that killed thousands.

Since Obasanjo, 65, won 1999 elections ending almost 16 years of military rule, he has won international praise for taking a personal role in regional mediation and peacekeeping efforts in Zimbabwe, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

But many Nigerians remain concerned with overhauling an oil-rich economy that has made a few fabulously wealthy, while the majority of the country's 120 million people live on less than a dollar a day.

"I have decided that it is best that I make myself available as a presidential candidate," Obasanjo, in long, flowing white robe, told thousands of singing, dancing and banner-waving supporters at a rally in Abuja, the capital.

"The decision was made after lengthy consultation with family, friends, critics and allies," the former army general and gentleman farmer said at the day of tributes, music and dancing, before Obasanjo finally began speaking.

"I weighed every piece of advice and caution. ... I've reflected and meditated and prayed to God Almighty," he told thousands of supporters.

The vote, due in the first half of next year, is expected in April.