In a candid and revealing interview with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie of Arise News, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar spoke about a range of topics, from leadership to political alliances, and his perspective on Nigeria’s future. The interview shed light on his views about leadership choices, allegations of corruption in political circles, and his thoughts on the current state of Nigerian politics.
When asked about his decision not to choose Nyesom Wike, the governor of Rivers State, as his running mate during his presidential bid, Atiku responded firmly: “No, not at all,” he said, expressing no regret about the choice he made during the 2023 presidential elections.
Atiku’s response came after a question about whether he had second thoughts about not selecting Wike, especially considering the political significance and influence that the Rivers State governor holds in the Nigerian political landscape. Despite some speculation about the possibility of Wike adding value to his presidential ticket, Atiku made it clear that he had no regrets about his decision.
The interview also touched on allegations of corruption against political figures in Nigeria. Atiku was asked if he had received reports of corruption during the tenure of former Governor Godswill Akpabio, particularly regarding his time as the governor of Akwa Ibom State. Atiku didn’t mince words in his response.
“Not only was he corrupt, but he was also in the habit of abusing women,” Atiku stated, referring to Akpabio’s controversial actions during his time in office. The statement added to the growing concerns about corruption within Nigerian politics, where accusations against prominent figures have often been part of public discourse.
In the course of the interview, Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie probed Atiku on his views about leadership and the future of the political coalition that has been forming in Nigeria. She asked if he thought there would be a leadership vacuum within the coalition and whether he was considering another presidential bid. Atiku reflected on a similar political merger that took place in 2014, where multiple presidential aspirants emerged and later united to support one candidate.
“At that time, there were about four of us, or was it two or three… and one of us emerged as the candidate. We all supported the one who emerged, and he won,” Atiku said, referring to the historic merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He acknowledged that this model could be replicated again, but added that the current political climate in Nigeria calls for leadership with experience and credibility.
“I have not seen Nigeria in dire need of experienced and credible leadership like this time,” he continued. Atiku’s comments reflect his belief that Nigeria’s political future demands strong leadership, especially given the challenges the country currently faces, including economic struggles, security issues, and political instability. Atiku, who has run for president multiple times, emphasized the urgency for competent leadership at this crucial moment in Nigeria’s history.
The conversation then turned to the issue of the State of Emergency, which was recently passed in the National Assembly. Adesuwa asked if Atiku was surprised by the ease with which it passed. The former Vice President’s response was frank and critical.
“No, I was not surprised because I know the leadership is corrupt, and I have no apologies about that,” Atiku said, without hesitation. He added that the leadership in the National Assembly had been known for questionable behavior, even when certain leaders, including the Senate President, held governorship positions in the past. His statement pointed to the challenges of governance in Nigeria, where accusations of corruption and misconduct often plague public officials, raising doubts about the integrity of the political system.
Atiku’s comments on the State of Emergency revealed his disillusionment with the current leadership and its lack of transparency. He went further to accuse the leadership of being willing to do anything to maintain power, which he believes undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.
The interview provided an insightful glimpse into Atiku’s thoughts on the country’s political landscape, his reflections on leadership choices, and his views on the integrity of political figures in Nigeria. Despite his critiques of the current administration, Atiku’s focus remained on what he believes to be Nigeria’s dire need for leadership that is both experienced and credible.
The former Vice President also shared his concerns about Nigeria’s direction, especially regarding its economy and political system. In his view, the country is at a crossroads, and its future will depend on leaders who can inspire trust and tackle the nation’s most pressing issues with integrity and determination.
Looking ahead, Atiku’s statement also seemed to hint at the possibility of his future involvement in Nigerian politics, though it remains unclear if he intends to run for president again in the upcoming elections. His experience in Nigerian politics and his involvement in past presidential bids have kept him a central figure in the country’s political discourse, and his words continue to resonate with many Nigerians who are keen on seeing a change in leadership.
