Atiku: Obasanjo Has No Electoral Value, Arewa Made Him President

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed former President Olusegun Obasanjo's electoral strength, claiming that Obasanjo could not win his own state or the South-West during the 1999 presidential election. This statement came as Atiku engaged in a renewed conflict with Obasanjo over their political relationship and the role they played in Obasanjo's emergence as President in 1999. Atiku contends that "it was Arewa that made him President," and that Obasanjo possesses "no electoral value."

The exchange of words between the two former leaders is part of a growing dispute between them. This dispute escalated after Obasanjo labeled his decision to select Atiku as his running mate in 1999 as his "biggest mistake" as President. Atiku, in turn, accused Obasanjo of rewriting history and attempting to use the past to gain political advantage ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku has defended his own role in the administration, stating that he supported Obasanjo after his release from prison and assisted in building the political structure that led to their victory in 1999. As he addresses the 2027 election, Atiku highlights his administration's record of creating opportunities for young Nigerians during his time as Vice President.

He asserts that some of those who benefited from these opportunities have since become governors, ministers, directors, and other public officeholders. If elected President in 2027, Atiku promises to continue creating these opportunities for young Nigerians, ensuring that they have the chance to serve and assume leadership positions under his administration.