Obasanjo Calls Atiku His Biggest Political Mistake

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described his decision to select Atiku Abubakar as his running mate in the 1999 presidential election as the greatest mistake of his political career. This statement was made during a fireside chat with Charles Oputa, known as Charly Boy, at the unveiling of the Charly Boy Foundation and the launch of his memoir titled ‘999: A Memoir in Tribute to Late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa’ in Lagos.

Obasanjo and Atiku were elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and served together from 1999 until 2007. Reflecting on his tenure, Obasanjo expressed that, with hindsight, he would not have chosen Atiku.

Despite the challenges in their relationship, he noted that he held no bitterness and was able to achieve his goals during his presidency. Additionally, Obasanjo reaffirmed his ancestry, stating his parents were from Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The event was attended by notable figures, including former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku and presidential candidate Peter Obi, among others.