The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s political influence, saying the ex-president lacks the electoral strength to determine the outcome of the 2027 election.
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Atiku stated this while speaking with journalists on Wednesday, in response to Obasanjo’s decision not to endorse his presidential bid.
The former Vice President said he was not concerned about the absence of Obasanjo’s backing, arguing that the former president had struggled to secure electoral support even in his home region during the 1999 presidential election.
“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 relationship between Atiku and Obasanjo has remained strained since they left office in 2007 after serving two terms as President and Vice President respectively.
Atiku had previously explained that his opposition to Obasanjo’s controversial third-term ambition was motivated by his desire to defend the Constitution and democratic principles.
Speaking on his plans for the 2027 election, Atiku also highlighted his record of empowering young Nigerians during his tenure as Vice President.
He said several young people who were given opportunities to serve under the administration had gone on to become governors, ministers, directors and occupants of other key public offices.
Atiku pledged that, if elected President, he would continue to create opportunities for younger Nigerians to participate meaningfully in governance and assume leadership responsibilities.
