Obasanjo has no electoral value, Arewa made him president in 1999 — Atiku

The presidential flag bearer of the African Democratic Congress Party (ADC) in Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has written off the political clout of former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, stating that he is not politically valuable in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

Atiku said this when addressing reporters in an interview session on Wednesday.

“In 1999, he could not even win his own state or the Southwest; it was Arewa that made him President. He possesses no electoral value,” Atiku said.

The former vice president and Obasanjo have had a strained political relationship since they left office in 2007 after completing two terms in government.

Atiku served as vice president under Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007.

The ADC candidate had previously explained that his opposition to Obasanjo’s controversial third-term bid was motivated by his desire to defend Nigeria’s Constitution and democracy.

Speaking on his plans for the 2027 presidential election, Atiku also highlighted his record of appointing and empowering young Nigerians during his tenure as vice president.

He said many of those who benefited from opportunities created under his administration have gone on to occupy important political and administrative positions, including as governors, ministers and directors.

Atiku promised that, if elected president in 2027, he would continue to create opportunities for young Nigerians to participate actively in governance and leadership.