Atiku Knocks Obasanjo Over Na’Abba Bribery Allegation

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised former President Olusegun Obasanjo over his recent claims that the late former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Umar Na’Abba, admitted collecting a bribe from him during the political crisis that rocked the National Assembly in 2003.

Responding through a statement issued by his media office, Atiku described Obasanjo’s remarks as “false and revisionist,” insisting that the former President should openly support his preferred presidential candidate instead of making what he called unsubstantiated allegations against political figures.

Atiku argued that the late Na’Abba was known for his courage, independence and commitment to democratic principles, adding that attempts to tarnish his legacy after his death were unfair and unacceptable.

The former Vice President further accused Obasanjo of trying to rewrite history by portraying political disagreements during his administration in a manner that did not reflect what transpired.

He maintained that Obasanjo should be “bold enough to support his kinsman” if he has chosen a preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election, rather than resorting to allegations against political opponents.

Atiku stressed that Nigerians deserve issue-based political engagement and urged political leaders to avoid inflammatory comments capable of distracting the country from pressing national challenges.

The latest exchange follows Obasanjo’s response to former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, in which the former President claimed that Na’Abba privately admitted receiving money from him but later denied it publicly.

The renewed war of words between the two former leaders has added another dimension to the growing political debate ahead of the 2027 general election.