TRENDING: “If I had known him better, I wouldn’t have picked him as running mate” – Obasanjo

Premium Times NigeriaIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 85yesterday

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has responded to criticisms from former President Olusegun Obasanjo, accusing him of distorting the history of their political partnership. Atiku, a presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress in the 2027 election, defended his decision to oppose Obasanjo's third-term bid, emphasizing his commitment to the Constitution and democracy. He argued that Obasanjo's comments were an attempt to rewrite history and that their disagreement was about preserving constitutional democracy rather than a personal conflict. Atiku expressed pride in resisting efforts to extend Obasanjo's presidency beyond the two-term limit and stated that he chose Nigeria and democracy over personal loyalty. He also highlighted his contributions to economic policies during Obasanjo's administration and cited praise from the World Trade Organization's Director-General.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Atiku's actions as principled resistance to authoritarianism and emphasizes his commitment to democratic values and the Constitution. It portrays Obasanjo's criticism as motivated by personal resentment rather than objective assessment, which aligns with a left-leaning perspective

Why factuality (90): Article 2 accurately reports Atiku's statements about voting for competence and rejecting vote-buying, consistent with other accounts. It provides specific quotes and context about his campaign message, aligning with cross-source consensus.

Why objectivity (85): The article presents Atiku's speeches and campaign messages without overt bias, though it emphasizes his call for competent leadership, which could be seen as subtly promoting his candidacy.

Premium Times NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 90yesterday

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo reflected on his 1999 presidential campaign during a conversation with activist Charles 'Charly Boy' Oputa, where he expressed regret over choosing his running mate, whom he later came to view negatively. Though he did not explicitly name Atiku Abubakar, the reference to 'my running mate' and 'my vice president' clearly pointed to Atiku, who served as his vice president from 1999 to 2007. The discussion occurred during the launch of the Charly Boy Foundation and the release of Oputa's memoir. Obasanjo acknowledged past mistakes but emphasized that divine intervention prevented greater damage to his administration. He stated he would not have selected his running mate if he had known him better, though he denied harboring bitterness toward Atiku, attributing their eventual falling out to differing political paths. Their relationship, marked by public disputes, remains a significant point of contention in Nigerian political history.

Bias read (Center): The article presents Obasanjo's personal reflection on a historical political decision without overtly endorsing or criticizing either side. It reports on his regret without taking a clear ideological stance, balancing his acknowledgment of past errors with his lack of bitterness. The framing is non

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports former President Obasanjo's remarks about his running mate, referencing the 1999 election and his subsequent reflections. It provides context about their political relationship and the deterioration over time. No primary source document is provided for the event itself

Why objectivity (90): The article presents Obasanjo's statements in a neutral manner, quoting him directly and providing context without apparent bias. The tone remains objective, focusing on the content of his comments rather than taking sides.

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 80yesterday

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched an initiative called 'RiseUpNaija' aimed at mobilizing 20 million votes for his African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential campaign ahead of the 2027 general election. The campaign involves appointing state-level coordinators to build a grassroots network from the national level down to individual polling units. Atiku emphasized rejecting vote-buying and promoting responsible voting, positioning himself as a leader committed to democratic values and national development. He addressed concerns about youth disillusionment with Nigerian leadership and urged young citizens to engage actively in the electoral process. The movement includes participants from various political parties and aims to register a large number of members across the country.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of Atiku's campaign strategies, including his emphasis on grassroots mobilization, rejection of vote-buying, and calls for civic engagement. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The content focuses on the宣布的

Why factuality (85): This article mirrors Article 0 in content, confirming the 20m vote drive and the RiseUpNaija Movement. It includes similar details about Atiku's speech and the movement's structure, consistent with other sources.

Why objectivity (80): Similar to Article 0, the tone is neutral but contains emotionally charged quotes about young Nigerians and the importance of democratic values, affecting objectivity.

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 80yesterday

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched an initiative called 'RiseUpNaija' aimed at mobilizing 20 million votes for his African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential campaign ahead of the 2027 general election. The movement includes young activists from various political parties and focuses on grassroots organization, rejecting vote-buying, and promoting democratic values. Atiku emphasized the importance of youth engagement and institutional accountability, while coordinators were tasked with establishing a nationwide network to ensure the ADC's success. The movement aims to register at least 100 members per polling unit across Nigeria.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of Atiku Abubakar's campaign strategies and initiatives without overtly favoring one side. It reports on the formation of the RiseUpNaija Movement, the goals of the campaign, and quotes from both Atiku and coordinators, presenting multiple perspectives and a

Why factuality (85): Article 0 reports Atiku's launch of a 20m vote drive and the formation of the RiseUpNaija Movement, aligning with cross-source consensus. It provides details about the movement's composition and Atiku's speech, which are corroborated by other articles. No primary source is available, so judgments re

Why objectivity (80): The tone is generally neutral, focusing on Atiku's campaign strategies and rhetoric. However, there is some emotional language in quotes about young Nigerians and the need for accountability, which slightly reduces objectivity.

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 75yesterday

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accused former President Olusegun Obasanjo of being bitter over the rejection of Obasanjo's third-term agenda, which Atiku claims he fought to prevent. In a statement, Atiku recounted supporting Obasanjo during his imprisonment, providing financial and material assistance upon his release, and helping rebuild his political career. He criticized Obasanjo for regretting his choice of Atiku as vice president and emphasized his commitment to constitutional principles and democratic governance. Atiku also highlighted praise from international figures like WTO Director Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for his economic leadership, suggesting Obasanjo's criticism comes at an inopportune time.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Atiku's actions as principled defense of democracy and constitutionality, emphasizing his moral and political sacrifices. It highlights Obasanjo's regret and perceived bitterness, implying a lack of integrity. The focus on Atiku's contributions and the critique of Obasanjo's past,

Why factuality (85): Article 9 covers Atiku's response to Obasanjo's claims, consistent with other articles on their political rivalry. It includes direct quotes and contextual information, aligning with cross-source reporting.

Why objectivity (75): The article presents Atiku's defense of his past support for Obasanjo without overt bias, but the emotional tone of the quotes about caring for Obasanjo could affect objectivity.

The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 755 days ago

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is running under the Accord party, celebrated a recent ruling by Nigeria's Court of Appeal that upheld the legal status of his party. The court overturned a previous decision by the Federal High Court that had ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress and four other political parties. Adeleke used social media to announce the victory, emphasizing the importance of democracy and the rule of law. He called on party members and supporters to increase grassroots mobilization ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The Court of Appeal ruled that the deregistration order was legally invalid due to procedural errors and lack of proper jurisdiction.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically charged issue involving legal challenges against political parties, the framing remains balanced. It presents both the court's ruling and Adeleke's reaction without overtly favoring any particular side. The tone is celebratory but does not exhibit clear left

Why factuality (85): Article 5 reports Atiku challenging Obasanjo's alleged support for his relative, aligning with other articles on the political tensions between Atiku and Obasanjo. It provides specific allegations and responses, consistent with cross-source reporting.

Why objectivity (75): The article presents the allegations and Atiku's response without clear bias, but the framing of Obasanjo's actions as politically motivated could introduce subtle bias.

The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 75yesterday

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, running for the 2027 Nigerian presidency under the African Democratic Congress, addressed young voters at a political retreat in Abuja, urging them to prioritize competent leadership over material benefits like 'bags of rice.' He emphasized accountability, institutional strength, and equal opportunity for all Nigerians, while condemning vote-buying and advocating for electoral integrity. Atiku highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping Nigeria's future, noting that their engagement could counteract attempts to undermine the democratic process. His speech was delivered alongside allies and leaders of the ADC, as political parties prepare for the upcoming election, with opposition groups focusing on rallying support against the ruling APC.

Bias read (Center): While the subject matter is politically charged, the article presents Atiku's message without overtly partisan language. It focuses on his campaign promises and calls for responsible voting, rather than taking a clear ideological stance. The framing remains balanced, emphasizing his commitment to民主和

Why factuality (80): Article 3 discusses the political conflict between Tinubu and ADC, including the exchange at the Catholic Bishops' Conference. While it aligns with other articles on the 2027 election, the details about the nature of the debate are less detailed compared to other sources.

Why objectivity (75): The article frames the conflict as a battle over defining the election's purpose, which introduces a slight ideological slant. The language suggests a narrative favoring the ADC's perspective.

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 75yesterday

As Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election, President Bola Tinubu and the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) are engaged in a battle to shape the narrative around the election. Tinubu, addressing the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria, emphasized his personal commitment to the presidency and warned potential challengers that he would resist any attempts to remove him from power. The ADC responded with a sharp critique, urging Tinubu to focus on combating terrorism rather than opposing political rivals. This exchange highlights the growing tension between the ruling party and opposition groups as they prepare for the upcoming election. Tinubu's speech focused on defending electoral legitimacy, asserting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) remains neutral, while also highlighting specific achievements of his administration, such as universities operating without prolonged strikes.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the president's stance and the opposition's response without overtly favoring either side. It provides direct quotes from both parties and outlines their respective positions without editorializing or using biased language.

Why factuality (80): Article 4 focuses on Adeleke's celebration of a court victory and mobilization efforts. It aligns with other articles mentioning the Osun Accord and legal battles, though it lacks depth compared to other coverage.

Why objectivity (75): The article presents Adeleke's victory and calls for mobilization without significant bias, but the emphasis on legal victories could be seen as subtly promoting the party's position.

The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 70yesterday

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar responded to former President Olusegun Obasanjo's criticism of their past collaboration, denying allegations that his decision to oppose Obasanjo's third-term bid was a mistake. Atiku defended his stance against the third-term agenda, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional democracy over personal loyalty. He highlighted his support for Obasanjo during his imprisonment and subsequent political revival, asserting that his actions were in the national interest. Atiku rejected Obasanjo's attempts to rewrite history, claiming that the fight against the third-term agenda was about preserving Nigeria's democratic institutions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced exchange between two former leaders, focusing on historical interpretation rather than taking a clear ideological stance. While both figures hold strong positions, the narrative does not favor one side over the other, maintaining neutrality in framing the conflict.

Why factuality (80): This article accurately reflects Atiku's response to Obasanjo's remarks, including the context of their past relationship and the controversy surrounding the third-term agenda. It cites specific events like the 1999 election and Obasanjo's recent comments at a public event. The information is consis

Why objectivity (70): While the article remains largely neutral in its reporting, it uses emotionally charged language such as 'failed attempt to rewrite history' and 'badge of honour,' which can be seen as subjective interpretations. Although it presents Atiku's position clearly, it does not provide significant counterp

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 65yesterday

Atiku Abubakar, a presidential candidate and former Vice President of Nigeria, responded to criticisms from former President Olusegun Obasanjo regarding his opposition to Obasanjo's push for a third term in office. Atiku emphasized that his resistance to the third-term agenda was a defense of Nigeria's constitution and democracy, not a personal vendetta. He recalled supporting Obasanjo during his time in prison and aiding him after his release, highlighting his loyalty despite their eventual political differences. Atiku criticized Obasanjo for expressing regret over appointing him as vice president, arguing that his actions were in line with constitutional principles. He also referenced praise from Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, for his economic leadership, suggesting Obasanjo's criticism comes at an inconvenient time.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives, Atiku's defense of his constitutional stance and Obasanjo's critique, without overtly favoring one side. The framing is balanced, focusing on historical context and mutual claims without loaded language or one-sided sourcing.

Why factuality (75): The article reports Onaiyekan's statements regarding the impact of the third-term agenda on Nigerian politics, citing specific historical events such as the 2003 constitution and the 2007 elections. It aligns with the cross-source consensus that Atiku opposed the third-term agenda and supported cons

Why objectivity (65): The article presents Onaiyekan's perspective with some emotional language, such as 'bitterness' and 'personal resentment,' which may reflect a biased viewpoint. While it provides context about the political conflict, it does not present opposing viewpoints or balance the narrative sufficiently, affe

The PunchIndependentCenter3 hr. ago

The Nigerian Presidency has refuted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's claim that the federal government received an unaccounted oil windfall of N7.98tn. It stated that any additional revenue from higher oil prices is already reflected in the monthly FAAC (Federal Allocation Committee) figures. The Presidency highlighted improvements in Nigeria's economic indicators, including a 49% increase in dollar-denominated GDP since the currency reform and a reduction in the debt service-to-revenue ratio from nearly 100% in December 2022 to below 60%. It criticized Atiku for basing his arguments on outdated data and emphasized that economic reforms are ongoing processes, not single events. The Presidency also noted that Nigeria's debt-to-GDP ratio is relatively low compared to other countries and that borrowing has been used for infrastructure and long-term investments.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the official stance of the Nigerian Presidency in response to criticism from a former high-ranking official. While the content reflects the administration's perspective, it provides specific economic data and directly addresses counterarguments without overtly biased language or

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenter9 hr. ago

The Nigerian presidency has criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for accusing the Tinubu-led government of 'fiscal recklessness,' claiming that these accusations are based on outdated 2024 data. The presidency argues that Nigeria's economic reforms are showing positive results, including improved revenue collection, reduced debt service pressures, and increased state funding. They accuse Atiku of relying on 'frozen snapshots of history' rather than current economic realities. The presidential statement highlights significant growth in both dollar-denominated and naira GDP since the exchange rate reset, arguing that evaluating economic performance based solely on 2024 figures fails to account for progress made in 2026.

Bias read (Center): While the article presents the presidency's rebuttal to Atiku's criticisms, it does not overtly favor one side over the other. The tone is factual and defensive, emphasizing the need for updated data rather than taking a partisan stance. The article provides both perspectives without clear editorial

The PunchIndependentCenter13 hr. ago

The article covers multiple topics, including a personal financial journey of businessman Farooq Oreagba, political developments within Nigeria's political landscape, and cultural news. Oreagba recounts his rise to becoming a dollar millionaire at 30, followed by financial loss and work as a laborer in England. Politically, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed former President Olusegun Obasanjo, increasing pressure on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar amidst preparations for the 2027 general election. Additionally, there are reports on the death of veteran juju musician St Janet and other related news items such as a road accident and housing approvals.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses political developments involving APC backing Obasanjo against Atiku, it presents both perspectives without overtly favoring one side. It mentions the implications for Atiku but does not frame the narrative in a clearly left or right-leaning manner. The tone remains fairly