Former Presidential Adviser Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has described Atiku Abubakar as one of the most active Vice Presidents in Nigeria’s history—until his role was diminished during the second term of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Speaking during an interview on TVC, Baba-Ahmed explained that while Nigerian Presidents often choose competent Vice Presidents, they frequently become “redundant” due to internal power dynamics.
“In his first term, Atiku was one of the busiest VPs we ever had. He was an exposed, hardened politician who understood the system. Obasanjo initially delegated a huge amount of responsibility to him, and I think he did competently well,” Baba-Ahmed said.
He further stated that Atiku, who was elected Governor of Adamawa State before stepping down to become Vice President, brought political experience that complemented Obasanjo’s military background.
However, he noted that things took a turn in the second term.
“Something happened that affected their relationship, and he ended up being a very idle Vice President for the rest of the second term,” Baba-Ahmed added.
He attributed the fallout to the complexities of managing the VP’s office, saying:
“The chemistry between the President and Vice President matters. Sometimes it boils down to the mischief of people close to the President.”
Atiku served as Vice President from 1999 to 2007 under Obasanjo. Their political rift became public toward the end of their administration.
