‘I Clothed, Cared for, Helped Make Obasanjo President’ — Atiku Fires Back After ‘Greatest Mistake’ Comment

• Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has hit back at Olusegun Obasanjo after being described as the ex-president’s “greatest mistake,” claiming he clothed, cared for and played a key role in making Obasanjo president.

African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has fired back at former President Olusegun Obasanjo after the ex-president described choosing him as vice president in 1999 as the “biggest mistake” of his political career.

Reacting through his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku accused Obasanjo of trying to rewrite history out of personal bitterness, insisting that his only “offence” was opposing the former president’s controversial third-term agenda.

“I am proud that I stood against the third-term agenda. I am proud that I stood by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I have no apology whatsoever for frustrating every attempt to subvert our democracy for personal ambition,” Atiku said.

He added that if Obasanjo’s resentment stemmed from his refusal to support a third term, he would “wear that resentment as a badge of honour,” stressing that no individual is bigger than Nigeria’s Constitution.

Atiku also revisited their political history, claiming he played a key role in Obasanjo’s return to power after his release from prison under the late General Sani Abacha.

According to the former vice president, he stood by Obasanjo during his most difficult period, supported his family, worked for his release, and provided him with financial and political support after he regained freedom.

“When he eventually regained his freedom, he had little to his name. I received him, clothed him, ensured he was properly cared for and extended every support necessary to help him regain his footing,” Atiku stated.

He further claimed he mobilised political structures, built alliances and made enormous sacrifices that ultimately helped Obasanjo emerge as Nigeria’s president in 1999.

Despite the latest attack, Atiku said he had no regrets about helping Obasanjo, describing his actions as acts of conscience rather than expectations of repayment.

He also criticised the former president for dwelling on old political grievances instead of focusing on Nigeria’s economic hardship, insecurity and unemployment, insisting that the 2027 elections should be about rebuilding the country rather than reopening old wounds.

The exchange followed Obasanjo’s remarks at the unveiling of Charly Boy’s memoir on Friday, where he said choosing Atiku as his deputy remained the greatest mistake he made while in office.