Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed fresh accusations leveled against him by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The allegations, which claim Atiku bribed the late Speaker of the House, Ghali Umar Na’Abba, to facilitate an impeachment, were issued through Atiku’s spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu.
Atiku condemned the timing of these claims, arguing that targeting a deceased individual who can no longer refute the accusations is both reckless and morally wrong. He questioned why Obasanjo waited until Na’Abba had passed away to bring these charges forward, noting that such actions deny the public a chance to hear a balanced account of events.
Addressing the validity of the claims, Atiku pointed out that no official findings or judicial rulings support the bribery accusation. He challenged the former President to explain why no formal action was taken during his time in office if such criminal behavior had truly occurred. Atiku suggested that the accusations are a strategic move to damage his reputation ahead of the 2027 general elections and to provide an unfair advantage to an associate of Obasanjo.
The former Vice President further attributed the lingering hostility to his opposition to Obasanjo’s failed third-term bid. He emphasized his commitment to the Constitution and the rule of law during that period, suggesting that Obasanjo still harbors resentment over those past legal defeats.
Instead of debating outdated political grievances, Atiku stated that his focus remains on Nigeria’s current challenges, including inflation, insecurity, and unemployment. He urged Obasanjo to be transparent about his political preferences for 2027 rather than relying on unverified claims against those unable to defend themselves.