“I Chose Nigeria Over Personal Loyalty”: Atiku Hits Back at Obasanjo Over Third-Term Remarks

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has fired back at former President Olusegun Obasanjo following recent criticisms, asserting that Obasanjo’s long-standing hostility towards him stems entirely from his refusal to support the former president’s controversial third-term bid.

The sharp response comes after Obasanjo remarked at an event in Lagos that selecting Atiku as his running mate in 1999 was the “biggest mistake” of his political career.

“I Wear His Resentment as a Badge of Honour”

Responding through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku stated that he has no apologies for standing up against an unconstitutional extension of tenure during their presidency.

“I am proud that I stood against the third-term agenda. I am proud that I stood by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I have no apology whatsoever for frustrating every attempt to subvert our democracy for personal ambition.”

— Atiku Abubakar

Atiku added that no individual, regardless of their past achievements, is bigger than the nation, emphasizing: “If Chief Obasanjo’s bitterness stems from my refusal to support an unconstitutional third term, then I wear that resentment as a badge of honour.”

Key Highlights from Atiku’s Statement

• Standing By Obasanjo in Hard Times: Atiku recalled supporting Obasanjo’s family while the former president was incarcerated under the Abacha military regime, stating that he helped mobilize political structures and resources to pave the way for Obasanjo’s presidency in 1999.
• Defending His Economic Record: The former Vice President rejected attempts to diminish his contributions to the economic prosperity of the 1999–2007 administration, pointing to recent commendations from key figures, including WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who praised the administration’s economic management team.
• Focusing on 2027: Atiku urged elder statesmen and political leaders to focus on addressing current national challenges—such as economic hardship, insecurity, and unemployment—rather than reopening decades-old political disputes.

A Legacy of Political Friction

The rift between Obasanjo and Atiku remains one of the most prominent fallouts in Nigeria’s fourth republic. While periodic attempts at reconciliation have occurred over the years, public exchanges between the two leaders continue to ignite debate over the true history of the 1999–2007 presidency.

What’s Your Take?

Do you believe Atiku’s opposition to the third-term agenda was his defining legacy as Vice President, or is it time for both leaders to put the past behind them?

Drop your thoughts in the comment section below, and keep following NaijaTunesHub for all the latest breaking political updates and news!