The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in 2019, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has explained why he chose immediate-past Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi as his running mate.
Atiku had announced his choice after a meeting with Obi at his Asokoro, Abuja home on Friday afternoon.
Speaking about his decision, which has enjoyed widespread praise by Nigerians on social media, Atiku said it was because Obi has a good grasp of the economy.
The Waziri of Adamawa revealed this in a Friday night statement by the Director General of his campaign, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.
He also hinged his choice on Obi’s youthfulness.
The statement read in part, “The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has chosen former Chairman of Fidelity Bank Plc and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, as his running mate for the 2019 presidential election.
“Mr. Obi’s choice was largely influenced by his youthfulness, vast knowledge of global and local economics as well as being a financial expert, all experience which Nigeria is in great need at this point in time.
“This ticket will be able to steer our nation back on the path of progress, economic prosperity and unity.”
The 57-year-old Obi graduated from Christ the King College, Onitsha and proceeded to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, graduating with a degree in Philosophy in 1984.
He is also an alumnus of the prestigious Lagos Business School, Harvard Business School and London School of Economics.