Waziri highlights Atiku’s democratic struggles and leadership in X Space session, by Abubakar Hassan Gimba
Former Minister and veteran politician, Adamu Maina Waziri, offered rare and candid insights into Nigeria’s recent political history and the democratic convictions of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar during an X (formerly Twitter) Space session hosted by popular user Avril Is A God.
The interactive session, which drew listeners from across the country, centered on Atiku’s political journey, his role in key national moments, and why Waziri believes he remains one of Nigeria’s most capable leaders.
A Relationship Rooted in History
Waziri revealed that he has known Atiku Abubakar since his secondary school days, describing him as a mentor whose guidance shaped his political philosophy and approach to public service.
According to Waziri, this long-standing relationship allowed him to observe Atiku’s character, leadership style, and unwavering commitment to democratic values over decades.
He emphasized that Atiku’s consistency, resilience, and dedication to national development have remained steadfast despite political pressures and personal setbacks.
Why Atiku Remains the Right Choice
Waziri explained that Nigeria’s current social, economic, and institutional challenges require experienced and principled leadership. He argued that Atiku’s extensive background in governance, economic management, and private enterprise equips him to confront these difficulties with competence and foresight.
He emphasized that Atiku possesses the vision and courage to implement reforms, even when doing so carries political risks.
June 12 and the Defence of Democracy
Reflecting on the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Waziri recalled that while he was a member of the National Republican Convention (NRC), Atiku belonged to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Despite their different political affiliations, Waziri said Atiku stood firmly for democracy, defending the people’s mandate during one of Nigeria’s most critical political crises.
He described Atiku’s actions during that period as evidence of his lifelong commitment to constitutional order and democratic principles.
Democracy at Home: The Case of Abba Atiku
Waziri highlighted Atiku’s respect for individual choice, citing the political independence of his son, Abba Atiku, who joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) despite his father’s PDP affiliation.
He explained that Atiku neither pressured nor discouraged his son, respecting his right to political choice. Waziri added that if Abba were to contest an election in Adamawa under a rival party, Atiku would not support him; instead, the former vice president’s political machinery would be deployed against him.
READ ALSO: Former VP, Atiku resigns from PDP
Mentorship Under Shehu Yar’Adua
Waziri traced Atiku’s political foundation to his mentorship under the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, a highly influential political strategist.
He noted that Yar’Adua instilled discipline, strategic thinking, political organization, and a commitment to national unity in Atiku—lessons that continue to guide his leadership style to date.
The Third Term Controversy
A highlight of the session was Waziri’s confirmation that former President Olusegun Obasanjo sought a third term. He disclosed that he personally served on one of the unofficial committees established to advance the agenda.
However, Waziri said Atiku, along with other key political actors, firmly rejected the plan, insisting it violated democratic norms and the constitution. He added that Atiku has paid, and continues to pay, a price for opposing the third-term bid.
Waziri alleged that President Obasanjo responded with what he described as “desperate measures” against perceived opponents, citing corruption allegations in Obasanjo’s book, My Watch, the Mambila Power Project legal controversy, and other presidential interventions.
He stressed that these moves were part of an effort to weaken Atiku politically, adding that Atiku chose restraint and forgiveness rather than retaliation.
Convener of the Good Governance Group
Waziri also spoke about his role as convener of the Good Governance Group, a coalition of politicians that worked to checkmate the manoeuvres of the famed cabal during the twilight of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration.
The group played a key role in ensuring the lawful transfer of power to President Goodluck Jonathan, advocating for the “doctrine of necessity” to stabilize the country.
Advocacy for Justice and Integrity
On governance and accountability, Waziri advocated for the quick dispensation of justice, emphasizing that those guilty of corruption should face consequences while the integrity of the innocent must be restored.
He stressed that timely legal processes are essential for public trust in government institutions.
On Atiku’s Departure from PDP in 2014
Waziri also shed light on Atiku’s decision to leave the PDP. He explained that when President Jonathan and the PDP printed only one nomination form for the presidency, it effectively undermined internal party democracy.
Zoning, Power Rotation, and National Unity
Waziri criticized the growing emphasis on zoning and regional rotation in presidential politics, arguing that competence and national interest should take precedence over ethnic or regional considerations.
He noted that since the return to democracy, the South has produced more presidents than the North, questioning the basis of current zoning arguments.
READ ALSO: We must find somebody that would work in harmony with Atiku – Adamu Waziri
According to him, leadership selection should be guided by sensible benchmarks, capacity, and the nation’s needs, rather than “tribalising” the presidency.
He also faulted Senator George Akume’s position on zoning, arguing that Akume lacked the moral authority to speak on the matter when his state, Benue has always been governed by members of the Tiv ethnic group (Akume’s tribe), with the Idoma yet to produce a governor.
Waziri further questioned Akume on where and how consultations were carried out in the North to support President Bola Tinubu’s continued leadership.
A Missed Opportunity in 2007
Assessing Nigeria’s political trajectory, Waziri opined that an Atiku Abubakar presidency in 2007 could have strengthened institutions, improved economic management, and mitigated political instability.
He suggested that missing that opportunity contributed to many of the challenges the country faces today.
On the Single-Term Debate
When asked why Atiku has not committed to serving only one term if elected president, Waziri explained that there is no constitutional requirement for such a pledge.
He noted that the law permits a maximum of two four-year terms and argued that leadership should be judged on competence and performance rather than pre-election promises.
Building Political Alliances
Waziri disclosed that consultations and alliance-building efforts were ongoing with several political actors, including Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and former Governor Sule Lamido.
He described some of these figures as “politically homeless” as he was at a point before the unveiling of the ADC, noting that coalition building remains essential for strengthening democratic competition.
A Conversation of Experience and Conviction
Throughout the Space session, Waziri spoke with authority, drawing from decades of political engagements.
READ ALSO: Only Atiku is fit for president in 2023 – Adamu Waziri
He presented Atiku Abubakar as a leader shaped by mentorship, tested by political adversity, and guided by firm democratic convictions, qualities he believes remain vital for Nigeria’s future.
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