The never-ending Obasanjo-Atiku political feud

A long-standing political feud between former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and his former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has resurfaced, with Obasanjo publicly declaring his decision to pick Abubakar as his deputy as his "biggest mistake."

This latest public criticism marks yet another chapter in the more than two-decade-old rivalry between the two prominent Nigerian political figures. Obasanjo and Abubakar served together for two terms, from 1999 to 2007, a period widely credited with stabilizing Nigeria's return to civilian rule after years of military dictatorship. Their initial partnership was seen as strong and united.

However, their relationship gradually deteriorated, marked by mistrust, political disagreements, and open confrontation, transforming one of Nigeria's strongest political partnerships into one of its most enduring rivalries. Despite Abubakar reportedly extending gestures of reconciliation, Obasanjo has remained a vocal critic, particularly as presidential election cycles approach and Abubakar expresses interest in the nation's highest office.

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he had done one of the things he is best known for in Nigeria’s political space: descending heavily on the man who served as his vice president for two terms spanning eight years, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

The precise origins of their rift are subject to differing accounts. Abubakar's camp suggests the breakdown stemmed from his opposition to Obasanjo's alleged "third-term agenda," which sought to amend the constitution for extended presidential terms. Conversely, Obasanjo has attributed the fallout to Abubakar's alleged attempts to facilitate his impeachment and eventual replacement as president.

Political analysts offer various interpretations, but the core reasons remain a subject of debate between the two camps. The pattern of Obasanjo's criticisms intensifying around Abubakar's presidential bids continues to intrigue many Nigerians, highlighting the deep-seated nature of their political animosity.

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In his latest onslaught, Obasanjo described his decision to pick Atiku as his deputy as his biggest mistake.