Atiku recounts assassination attempt urges AUN graduates to embrace integrity 

DDM News

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar delivered a keynote speech at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) convocation ceremony.

He recounted a terrifying assassination attempt that took place in Kaduna State, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathers.

Atiku said he was shot at but was not hit.

He described the event as a lesson in bravery and resilience.

“I went forward to face the assailants after hiding my wife and kids in a closet,” he stated.

“They missed their shot at me,” he added.

“I demanded, ‘Why did you fire?’ as I got to my feet,” he said.

He told the graduates, “That’s what courage looks like.”

His words sparked applause and cheers from the audience.

The statement emphasized the theme of confronting hardship without fear.

Atiku encouraged young Nigerians to stay informed and actively participate in nation-building.

He also reflected on a critical moment during Nigeria’s military era.

Atiku said he was once offered a governorship without an election.

He declined the offer, choosing instead to pursue democratic leadership.

“They offered me a governorship without elections when we opposed military dictatorship,” he said.

“But I turned it down,” he added.

“I became Vice President in 1999 after earning it the right way,” he told the audience.

His message urged the graduating class to value honesty, fortitude, and moral courage.

“Regardless of the situation, hold on to your principles,” he advised.

“I’ve been hunted, but I never wavered,” Atiku declared.

He spoke passionately about the importance of character in leadership.

He also stressed that patience is not weakness but strength.

“Patience is a weapon of the wise,” he said.

His decades of political experience shaped his understanding of leadership and resilience.

Graduates preparing for uncertain futures found comfort in his message.

Atiku paid tribute to his late mentor, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

He recalled Yar’Adua’s courage even when facing execution under military rule.

“On the day of his planned execution, his blood pressure was normal,” Atiku said.

“That person is a soldier. That’s bravery,” he remarked.

The convocation ceremony celebrated academic success and national reflection.

Atiku’s speech was a strong call for integrity, purpose, and responsible citizenship.

His personal stories offered insight into Nigeria’s political journey.

He left the graduates with a challenge to lead by example.

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