Atiku Reacts Strongly As Obasanjo Calls Him ‘Biggest Mistake’ Of His Presidency

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched a fierce response against former President Olusegun Obasanjo, insisting that history cannot be rewritten after Obasanjo described picking Atiku as his running mate in 1999 as the “biggest mistake” of his presidency.

Obasanjo made the controversial remark on Friday in Lagos during a fireside chat with veteran activist Charles Oputa (Charly Boy). Reacting via a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku dismissed the comment as “another failed attempt to rewrite history.”

Defending his record, Atiku emphasized that his fallout with the former military ruler was rooted in his firm refusal to support Obasanjo’s controversial third-term bid, choosing the Nigerian Constitution over personal loyalty.

“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. 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.”

Recounting their political journey, the former vice president reminded Nigerians of his pivotal role in Obasanjo’s political comeback following his release from prison prior to the 1999 elections.

“History records that while Chief Obasanjo was in prison, I stood firmly by him. I supported his family, worked tirelessly with other patriots for his release and never wavered… When he eventually regained his freedom, he had little to his name. I received him, clothed him, ensured he was properly cared for, and extended every support necessary to help him regain his footing.”

Atiku noted that while he does not regret helping Obasanjo, “gratitude should never be replaced with revisionism.”

He also referenced recent praise from World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala regarding the economic management team he led, contrasting her recognition with Obasanjo’s persistent criticisms.

Concluding his statement, Atiku urged leaders to focus on addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues—such as economic hardship, insecurity, and unemployment—rather than reopening old political wounds ahead of the 2027 elections.