Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria’s former president, has identified his 1999 selection of Atiku Abubakar as his vice-presidential candidate as the most significant regret of his professional life. He shared this perspective during a conversation with activist and musician Charly Boy in Lagos, held to mark the launch of a foundation and a memoir honoring the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.
Reflecting on his tenure, Obasanjo stated that he would have avoided that choice if he could repeat the process. He emphasized that he harbors no resentment, noting that he was fortunate that his deputy’s behavior did not ultimately impede his governance or prevent him from meeting his administration’s objectives. During the same event, he also clarified his ancestral background, confirming that his parents were originally from Abeokuta.
The gathering hosted various notable attendees, including Peter Obi, Emeka Anyaoku, and Leo Stan Ekeh. Obasanjo and Abubakar had served together under the Peoples Democratic Party banner from 1999 until 2007, though their professional partnership deteriorated significantly during their final years in office.
