Atiku Abubakar Born on November 25, 1946, in Jada, Adamawa State, Atiku Abubakar emerged as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. His early life was marked by challenges, including the early loss of his sister and his father’s reluctance towards Western education. Despite these hurdles, Abubakar pursued education, starting at age 8 in Adamawa.
Professional Beginnings and Transition to Politics
After completing primary school in 1960, Abubakar joined the Nigeria Police College in Kaduna. His journey took a turn as he left the college and worked as a Tax Officer before enrolling at the Kano School of Hygiene in 1966. Following this, he ventured into law at Ahmadu Bello University, joining the Nigeria Customs Service during the Nigerian Civil War in 1969.
Business Ventures and Real Estate
Abubakar’s transition from public service to business in 1989 marked a turning point. Utilizing his background as a Customs Officer, he played a pivotal role in founding Nigeria Container Services (NICOTES). His business acumen extended to real estate, with strategic investments in Yola, Adamawa, and the establishment of Adama Beverages Limited.
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Personal Life and Family
Atiku Abubakar’s personal life reflects a rich tapestry of relationships, with four spouses and a total of 28 children. His family includes children from marriages to Titilayo Albert, Ladi Yakubu, Princess Rukaiyatu, and Fatima Shettima. The complexities of his personal life have occasionally drawn public attention.
Political Ascendancy
Abubakar’s foray into politics began in the 1980s, actively participating in campaigns and supporting candidates such as Bamanga Tukur. His association with General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and the formation of the Peoples Front of Nigeria (PFN) marked a crucial phase. His political career witnessed shifts, including his initial entry into the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and subsequent moves to other parties.
Vice Presidency and Political Struggles
Appointed as Nigeria’s Vice President in 1999 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, Abubakar played significant roles as Chairman of the National Economic Council and the National Council for Privatization. However, clashes with Obasanjo, particularly over the Third Term Agenda, led to a divide within the PDP. Abubakar’s subsequent departure and rejoining of the PDP showcased the complexities of Nigerian politics.
Presidential Ambitions and Controversies
Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambitions have been persistent, with six attempts since 1993. He faced challenges, including disqualifications and controversies, notably in the 2007 elections and the legal battles that followed. Despite the setbacks, he has remained a prominent figure in Nigerian politics.
Recent Political Developments
Abubakar’s switch to the All-Progressives Congress (APC) and later back to the PDP reflects the dynamic nature of Nigerian politics. His 2019 presidential bid under the PDP ended in defeat against Muhammadu Buhari. The aftermath saw legal disputes and claims of electoral irregularities.
Business Ventures Amid Political Engagements
Amid his political engagements, Abubakar maintained a presence in business, facing conflict of interest claims due to his supervisory federal role. His firm, NICOTES (later INTELS), became entangled in U.S. money laundering claims during his vice presidency.
Conclusion
Atiku Abubakar’s political journey is marked by resilience, controversies, and a persistent pursuit of the presidency. His contributions span business, public service, and politics, making him a significant and intriguing figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.
