Atiku Rejects Obasanjo’s Criticism, Says He Won’t Allow History to Be Rewritten
By Peace Erewunmi
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has rejected recent criticism by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, describing it as another attempt to rewrite the history of their political relationship. Atiku insisted that he remained loyal to Obasanjo during difficult periods and played a significant role in his political rise before their relationship later deteriorated.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said he stood by Obasanjo while the former military ruler was in prison, supported him after his release and worked tirelessly for his emergence as Nigeria’s President in the 1999 general election. He argued that these contributions could not be erased by present-day political disagreements.
Atiku further claimed that the root of Obasanjo’s hostility toward him was his opposition to the former President’s alleged third-term agenda during their administration. He maintained that he had no regrets over resisting any attempt to extend constitutional term limits, describing his decision as one made in defence of Nigeria’s democracy.
The response followed Obasanjo’s recent remarks in which he described choosing Atiku as his running mate in 1999 as the biggest mistake of his presidency. The former President said that, with the benefit of hindsight, he would not have selected Atiku as his deputy.
The latest exchange highlights the long-standing political rift between the two former leaders, whose relationship shifted from close allies in government to outspoken critics of one another after leaving office. Their disagreement has remained one of the most enduring rivalries in Nigeria’s political history.
