There is no publicly available evidence or credible reporting to support the claim that Abba Kyari offered a ₦160 million bribe to secure the vice-presidential slot under former President Olusegun Obasanjo. While Kyari was indeed considered for the position during the 1999 presidential election, the decision ultimately favored Atiku Abubakar.
This consideration was highlighted in a tribute by Mamman Daura, a close associate of Kyari, who noted that a group within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) lobbied for Kyari’s selection, but Obasanjo chose Atiku after extensive deliberations
.Throughout his career, Abba Kyari faced various allegations of misconduct. For instance, in 2016, he was investigated over a ₦500 million bribery allegation related to MTN Nigeria’s fine, though the outcome of that probe was not publicly disclosed . Additionally, in 2018, the presidency dismissed a ₦29 million scam allegation against him, labeling it as false and a calculated attempt to tarnish the administration’s image .
However, none of these allegations pertain to the vice-presidential selection process in 1999. There is no documented accusation or evidence linking Kyari to any bribery attempt to secure the VP slot under Obasanjo.
