Aformer Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Dele Momodu, has recounted how former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, stepped down for late Chief Moshood Abiola in 1993, describing him as an “ideal democrat.”
Momodu who stated this in an article published on his Facebook page, titled “Why Atiku is my ideal Democrat,” highlighted Atiku’s commitment to democratic values and decorum throughout his political career.
“Since 1993, when he stepped down for Chief Moshood Abiola at the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Presidential Primary in Jos, he has played politics with utmost decorum,” Momodu said.
This gesture, according to Momodu, showcases Atiku’s character and commitment to democratic principles.
Momodu praised Atiku’s ability to work with others, even when faced with challenges.
He noted that Atiku showed maturity when his arch-rival Babagana Kingibe was chosen as his running mate, and instead of working against the party, Atiku became Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
According to him, “The deal was that he would take over after their first term in office but it fell through despite the humongous support from majority of the governors. He still respected his Boss and doused the tension in the second term when he was virtually stripped of his Constitutional obligations and rights. He accepted his fate with uncommon equanimity.”
The chieftain of the African Democratic Party (ADC) further stated that since then, Atiku had “engaged in productive and well managed businesses unlike most of his contemporaries who cannot survive outside power and politics. He is a man with Midas touch and has his fingers in many fruitful pies. Nigeria would have been a much better place if majority of our leaders had been gainfully employed like him.
“He has never invested in thuggery or election rigging. For him, politics is a game to be played ethically without rancor or bitterness. He has never introduced violence to the game. Whenever he felt aggrieved, he simply moved on to other platforms in order to try his luck elsewhere. Never did he pull down the roof or set the house on fire.”
Atiku’s “commitment” to education and entrepreneurship was also commended by Momodu.
“He has established one of the best institutions in Nigeria and awarded scholarships to indigent students up to tertiary levels,” Momodu said.
Momodu described Atiku as a well-educated gentleman who has engaged in productive and well-managed businesses, unlike most of his contemporaries who cannot survive outside power and politics.
“At his age, he has doggedly pursued an enviable health regimen and God has been extremely kind to him. His Chief Personal Physician, Dr Azu Ndukwe who has been with him from the State House, an Igbo man, goes everywhere with him till this day,” he said.
