Obasanjo, Atiku’s problem rooted in politics not personal – Olarewaju
Olarewaju Discusses Political Rift Between Obasanjo and Atiku
Abeokuta, Nigeria – Demola Olarewaju, senior political assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has asserted that the longstanding disagreement between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku is primarily political.
In an interview on Monday with Eagle 102.5 FM, Olarewaju suggested that Obasanjo’s reluctance to support Atiku’s presidential aspirations is rooted in political motivations. “It is clear that Obasanjo does not want Atiku Abubakar to ever be President of the Federal Republic,” he stated.
Despite their political differences, Olarewaju emphasized that Atiku continues to hold Obasanjo in high regard, asserting that their conflict lacks personal animosity. “They do not seem to have a personal issue. Atiku holds Obasanjo in high esteem,” he said.
Olarewaju also raised concerns about Obasanjo’s belief regarding his own leadership legacy, questioning the former president’s view that no one could replicate his achievements in governing Nigeria.
The tensions between Obasanjo and Atiku date back to their time in office from 1999 to 2007. Recently, the dispute has resurfaced, with Obasanjo labeling his decision to select Atiku as his running mate in 1999 as the “biggest mistake” of his political career. He further accused Atiku of attempting to orchestrate his impeachment in 2003.
Atiku’s representatives have dismissed these allegations, framing them as part of a sustained campaign of misinformation from Obasanjo. Atiku has argued that Obasanjo’s discontent stems from his refusal to endorse the former president’s bid for a third term, asserting that he prioritized constitutional integrity and Nigeria’s democratic principles over personal loyalty.
Questions were also raised about alleged payments to former lawmaker Ghali Na’Abba, who passed away in 2023, with Atiku’s team challenging the rationale for relying on a deceased figure for such claims.
Olarewaju described Obasanjo’s political journey since leaving office in 2007 as a “journey of redemption,” suggesting that the former president has sought to rebuild his relationship with the Yoruba people. Despite Obasanjo’s opposition to Atiku, supporters of the former vice president remain committed to his political ambitions.
Ayodeji Ologun, Executive Director of the Centre for Responsive Governance, joined Olarewaju in the interview, stressing the importance of truth in the political discourse among Nigerians.
