Obasanjo, Atiku’s problem rooted in politics not personal – Olarewaju

Demola Olarewaju, Senior Political Assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, asserts that the conflict between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku stems from political motivations. Speaking on Monday during an interview on Eagle 102.5 FM, Olarewaju stated that Obasanjo does not wish for Atiku to become president.

At the interview, held alongside the Executive Director of the Centre for Responsive Governance, Ayodeji Ologun, Olarewaju explained that Atiku still respects Obasanjo despite their political differences, indicating no personal animosity between the two former leaders. According to Olarewaju, the disagreement between Obasanjo and Atiku is solely political, adding that Obasanjo appears to harbor an opinion that no one else could replicate his achievements or govern Nigeria more effectively than he did.

Olarewaju also questioned Obasanjo's belief that no leader could match his accomplishments or govern Nigeria better than he did. The tension between Obasanjo and Atiku dates back to their time in office from 1999 to 2007, when Obasanjo reportedly described his choice of Atiku as his running mate in 1999 as his "biggest mistake" of political life and alleged that Atiku was involved in a conspiracy to impeach him in 2003.

Atiku, through his media representatives, dismissed the allegations, calling them part of a longstanding campaign of "lies, deceit and historical distortion" orchestrated by the former president. Obasanjo also claimed that his refusal to back Atiku's bid for a third term was what ignited Obasanjo's resentment. Olarewaju described Obasanjo's political behavior post-2007 as a "journey of redemption," stating that he has been working to mend his relationship with the Yoruba people.

Despite Obasanjo's opposition, supporters of Atiku remain resolute in pursuing his political ambitions.