posted 26th March 2025
Atiku Alleges Corruption in National Assembly, Recalls Choosing Peter Obi as Running Mate in 2019
Abuja, 26 March 2025 – Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the National Assembly of widespread corruption, while also reflecting on his decision to select Peter Obi as his vice-presidential running mate during the 2019 presidential election. The remarks came during an exclusive interview with Adesuwa of Arise News, offering a glimpse into both his political strategy and his views on the state of Nigerian governance.
Atiku did not mince words when addressing the National Assembly, alleging that corruption has become deeply entrenched within the legislative body. “The National Assembly is failing the Nigerian people,” he stated. “Corruption has taken hold, and it’s a problem we cannot ignore if we want a functioning democracy.” Though he stopped short of presenting specific evidence, his comments align with persistent criticisms of the assembly, which has long faced scrutiny over alleged financial impropriety and lack of transparency.
Turning to his 2019 presidential campaign under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku elaborated on why he chose Peter Obi, then a relatively understated politician, as his running mate. Obi, who later gained national prominence as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, was selected for his integrity and proven leadership, according to Atiku.
“I picked Peter Obi because he stood out as a man of honour,” Atiku explained to Adesuwa. “His tenure as governor of Anambra State showed he could handle resources responsibly and achieve tangible results. I saw him as the right partner for my vision of a Nigeria free from corruption and stagnation.”
Atiku described the decision-making process within the PDP, emphasising that Obi’s selection was deliberate and strategic. “It was a well-thought-out choice,” he said. “We needed someone who could connect with voters, particularly in the South-East, and who aligned with our goals of economic progress and accountable governance. Peter ticked all those boxes.”
The interview arrives amid ongoing speculation about Atiku’s political ambitions, with many eyeing his potential candidacy in the 2027 election. His criticism of the National Assembly could signal an intent to cast himself as a champion of reform, while his warm words for Obi might suggest an openness to mending past rifts. The two parted ways after their 2019 loss to President Muhammadu Buhari, with Obi eventually leaving the PDP for the Labour Party—a move some believe weakened the opposition’s unity.
Neither Obi nor the National Assembly has yet responded to Atiku’s statements. The latter is likely to face pushback from lawmakers keen to protect their reputation, while Obi’s silence leaves room for speculation about his stance on their former alliance.
Atiku’s allegations and reflections are sure to spark debate as Nigeria navigates economic difficulties and political uncertainty. The full interview, conducted by Arise News journalist Adesuwa, will air later this week, offering further details on Atiku’s perspective on the country’s challenges and his role in its future.
