Atiku made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, where he explained that his fortune came from ventures across logistics, real estate, agriculture, education, and the oil and gas sector.

He said he was already a fully established businessman before joining politics and had interests spread across different parts of the economy.

According to him, his financial background has never been in doubt because of how his wealth was acquired.

Atiku also recalled his role in the early formation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating that he was among its key founders and also contributed financially to its establishment.

He further noted that during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, a panel was set up to investigate his activities. He said the panel included figures such as Nasir El-Rufai and Nuhu Ribadu, and that he allowed the process to proceed without relying on his immunity.

“I made my money through business before joining politics. I invested in oil and gas, logistics, agriculture and other sectors,” he said.

“I was already established in business before I came into politics.”

“I played a major role in setting up the PDP and contributed financially to its formation.”

“No one accused me of corruption because my sources of income were clear.”

“A panel was set up to investigate me, and I allowed it to go ahead without hiding behind immunity,” he added.

Atiku remains active in Nigerian politics and is currently seeking the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election.