Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has downplayed former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s electoral influence, saying he lacked the capacity to win even his own state in 1999.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Atiku said Obasanjo’s emergence as president was made possible by the support of the North, not by votes from the South-West.
“In 1999, he could not even win his own state or the South-West; it was Arewa that made him President. He possesses no electoral value,” Atiku said, according to _Tribune_.
The remarks are the latest in the renewed verbal exchange between the former president and his former deputy over their roles in the 1999–2007 administration.
The dispute escalated after Obasanjo described picking Atiku as running mate in 1999 as the “biggest mistake” of his presidency. Obasanjo also accused Atiku of disloyalty and alleged involvement in a plot to impeach him.
Atiku dismissed the claim, accusing Obasanjo of distorting history to gain political mileage ahead of the 2027 elections.
He maintained that he stood by Obasanjo after his release from prison and helped build the political structure that delivered their victory in 1999.
Speaking on his presidential ambition, Atiku said his record as vice president included creating opportunities for young Nigerians, many of whom later became governors, ministers, directors and other public officeholders.
He pledged that if elected in 2027, his government would continue to give young people platforms to serve and take leadership roles.
Atiku is contesting the 2027 presidential election on the ADC platform, after aligning with other opposition leaders ahead of the polls.
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