Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said he was forced into exile to escape assassination attempts linked to his loyalty in politics.
Mr. Atiku spoke at the launch of Loyalist Begets Loyalist, a book written by the National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi.
“Many of us here, particularly Malam Bolaji Abdullahi and myself have suffered because of loyalty. I have personally faced exile as a result of loyalty,” Atiku said.
“I have survived assassination attempts as a result of loyalty. What you may have found through research is not unusual; it is part of the price many of us have paid.”
The former vice president said his background in the military shaped his understanding of loyalty but noted that politics operates differently.
“For those of us who come from the military and paramilitary professions, loyalty is non-negotiable. There is no reservation, only absolute obedience,” he said.
“But having joined political life over the last almost four decades, I have realised that loyalty in politics is not as rigid as it is in the military.”
Atiku said loyalty in public life must be guided by accountability and openness.
“Loyalty should strengthen the common goal, not narrow the circle of belonging,” he said.
“It requires accountability, transparency, and the ability to listen and learn, especially from those with whom we disagree.”
He added that loyalty should protect citizens’ rights.
“True loyalty embraces diversity of thought and protects the dignity of every citizen. As leaders and aspiring leaders, these are lessons we must bear in mind for leadership and public service,” he said.
Speaking on the book, Atiku said it invites reflection on the meaning of loyalty.
“The book invites us to examine loyalty to country, community, institutions, and to our own moral compass vis-à-vis personal loyalty,” he said.
“It challenges us to consider how loyalty can unite us in the service of a shared and just future.”
