Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revisited his turbulent political relationship with Atiku Abubakar, declaring that choosing him as vice president in 1999 was the greatest mistake he made in his political career.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has delivered a striking verdict on one of the most consequential decisions of his political career, admitting that selecting Atiku Abubakar as his running mate in the 1999 presidential election was his “greatest mistake.”
Obasanjo made the disclosure on Friday in Lagos during a fireside conversation with musician and activist Charly Boy at the unveiling of Charly Boy’s foundation and memoir, 999: A Memoir in Tribute to Late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.
Looking back on their time in office, the former president said his assessment of Atiku changed significantly with experience.
“If I had known him as I came to know him later, I would not have picked him,” Obasanjo said.
He, however, insisted that his remarks were not driven by bitterness, saying Atiku’s actions and reactions did not ultimately derail his administration or prevent him from pursuing what he considered the national interest.
Obasanjo: I Would Not Have Picked Atiku
Obasanjo said hindsight had fundamentally altered his assessment of the decision that brought Atiku into the presidency as his deputy.
He described the choice as the biggest mistake he made, reflecting on the political tensions that later emerged between both men during their time in government.
Despite the strained relationship, Obasanjo said he remained grateful that the disagreements did not overwhelm his administration or distract him from his responsibilities as president.
‘There Is No Bitterness’
The former president was careful to distinguish his criticism from personal resentment.
According to him, Atiku acted based on what he believed was right, while God ultimately allowed events to unfold according to a larger purpose.
Obasanjo said he was still able to accomplish the objectives he had set for his administration despite the political challenges that emerged between him and his vice president.
From Running Mates to Political Rivals
Obasanjo and Atiku contested the 1999 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party and served together from 1999 to 2007.
Their relationship subsequently deteriorated amid political disagreements, particularly during their second term.
The latest comments revive memories of one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political partnerships and come at a time when Atiku remains an active figure in the political contest ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
2027 Politics Adds Fresh Weight to Remark
Obasanjo’s comments are likely to attract renewed attention because of Atiku’s continued involvement in opposition politics ahead of 2027.
The former president’s remarks also come amid intense realignments among Nigeria’s major political blocs as politicians position themselves for the next presidential contest.
For Atiku, who served as Obasanjo’s vice president for eight years, the former president’s latest assessment represents a remarkable reflection on a political partnership that once stood at the centre of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.