Obasanjo Calls Atiku His Biggest Mistake as VP Choice

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described his decision to select Atiku Abubakar as his running mate in the 1999 presidential election as his greatest mistake while in office. This statement was made during a fireside chat with Charles Oputa, also known as Charly Boy, in Lagos at the unveiling of Charly Boy’s foundation and memoir on Friday.

Obasanjo acknowledged that all leaders make mistakes but specifically pointed to his choice of vice president as one he would not repeat. He stated that had he known Atiku as he came to know him later, he would not have made that choice.

Obasanjo reflected on their time together from 1999 to 2007 under the Peoples Democratic Party and noted that their relationship deteriorated due to political disagreements. He also discussed the Nigerian Civil War, rejecting claims of genocide and asserting that the military campaign aimed to preserve national unity while taking steps to minimize civilian casualties.