Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has downplayed former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s electoral influence, asserting that northern voters were crucial to his 1999 presidential win. During a press engagement on Wednesday, Atiku commented on the strained relations between himself and Obasanjo, which have seen renewed tension over their political history and governance period from 1999 to 2007.
Atiku pointed out that Obasanjo struggled to secure votes in his own state or the broader South-West region during the 1999 election. He emphasized the role of Arewa in Obasanjo’s presidency, arguing that the former president lacks significant electoral sway.
The exchange marks a continuation of the public disagreement between these erstwhile political allies. Recently, Obasanjo referred to choosing Atiku as his vice-presidential candidate in 1999 as the most regrettable decision of his presidency. He accused Atiku of disloyalty and claimed that he was involved in plots to undermine him.
However, Atiku has dismissed Obasanjo’s perspective as selective and insists that he was integral to the political framework that secured their joint election victory in 1999.
In discussing the 2027 presidential race, Atiku highlighted his past efforts to create opportunities for young Nigerians while serving as vice president, noting that many beneficiaries went on to hold significant positions such as governors, ministers, and directors. He pledged that under his leadership, youth empowerment and leadership roles would continue to be priorities.
Atiku, competing under the ADC banner, is part of a broader opposition strategy to unify different political segments ahead of the 2027 elections. His recent criticisms of Obasanjo inject new dynamics into ongoing political discussions about influence and legacy within Nigeria’s political landscape. As preparations for the 2027 presidential election progress, this revived discord is poised to remain a central narrative.
