What role did you play in Nigeria's journey to democracy?

I played my part in the long struggle that eventually led to the restoration of democracy in 1999.

I entered active politics in 1989 under the leadership of Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and became involved in the movement for democratic government. In 1993, I contested the SDP presidential nomination, but after the first ballot I stepped down and supported Chief MKO Abiola.

During the Abacha years, I opposed continued military rule and was eventually forced into exile. I remained involved in the democratic struggle and was part of the broad coalition of political leaders that opposed Abacha’s self-succession agenda and later participated in the political realignment from which the PDP emerged in 1998.

When the transition to civilian rule began, I won the election for Governor of Adamawa State. Before taking office, I was selected as Olusegun Obasanjo’s running mate. We won the 1999 presidential election and were sworn in on 29 May 1999, beginning Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

I would never claim that democracy was the achievement of one person. Many Nigerians, pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, politicians and ordinary citizens, made enormous sacrifices. I am proud to have played my part in that journey.