Obasanjo-Atiku Feud: Author Questions Nigerian Leaders' Honesty

A protracted verbal sparring match between former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and his ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar has become a recurring feature, particularly during presidential election seasons. Obasanjo typically initiates the conflict, portraying Abubakar in a highly negative light, with Abubakar consistently responding in kind.

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Obasanjo always fires the first salvo, presenting Atiku as the devil incarnate. But Atiku never shies away from responding in kind.

The author characterizes this feud as "self-indulgent" and frustratingly opaque, suggesting a significant degree of deception clouds its origins. While stating a neutral stance, the article contends that Obasanjo bears a greater responsibility for "dissembling." His historical legacy is presented as mixed: he played a crucial role in ending the civil war and fulfilled his promise to return Nigeria to civilian rule in 1979. As a civilian president, he is credited with effective administration, driving economic reforms, securing debt relief, and establishing anti-graft agencies, though the article notes he politicized these institutions, potentially undermining them.

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if truth be told, Obasanjo has a greater record of dissembling!

However, Obasanjo's tenure is also criticized for its failings in politics and democratic values. The article alleges he governed like a dictator, orchestrating the removal of senate presidents and governors, and that the 2003 and 2007 elections under his watch were heavily rigged. His attempt to amend the constitution for a third term is also cited as a perversion of democratic principles. Despite these actions, Obasanjo is described as showing no contrition, instead adopting a self-righteous tone when discussing political practices.

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So Obasanjo deserves credit for his roles in ending the civil war, in returning Nigeria to civil rule and, later as president, in sound economic management and institution building.

The article points to a 2009 BBC "HARDTalk" interview where interviewer Stephen Sackur grilled Obasanjo, suggesting the former president "has a great capacity for putting a very rosy tint on his record." Obasanjo's dismissive responses to accusations of corruption and his role in the National Assembly's controversies are highlighted, illustrating the author's point about Obasanjo's tendency to present a carefully curated version of his past.

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However, Obasanjo failed woefully in the realms of politics and democratic values, where he’s a terribly bad role model.