African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed the political influence of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Atiku said Obasanjo’s decision not to endorse his 2027 presidential ambition does not concern him.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Atiku argued that Obasanjo had limited electoral influence.
He said Obasanjo could not secure victory in his home state or the Southwest during the 1999 presidential election.
According to Atiku, support from the northern region, particularly Arewa, played a major role in Obasanjo’s emergence as president.
The former vice president said, “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 and Obasanjo have had a strained relationship since leaving office in 2007 after serving two terms.
Atiku also recalled his opposition to Obasanjo’s alleged third-term bid, saying he acted to defend Nigeria’s Constitution and democracy.
On the 2027 election, Atiku said he had helped many young Nigerians gain opportunities to serve in government during his time as vice president.
He noted that some of those beneficiaries have gone on to become governors, ministers, directors and other public office holders.
Atiku promised that, if elected president, he would continue to create opportunities for young Nigerians to serve and provide leadership.
