Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has described the role of a vice president as “possibly the most difficult job in the world,” offering rare behind-the-scenes insight during the launch of a new book, According to the President, written by Malam Garba Shehu, former presidential spokesperson.
The event, which brought together dignitaries including 90-year-old former President Yakubu Gowon, took place in Abuja and celebrated Shehu’s eyewitness account of governance under two presidents — Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari.
While delivering his speech at the event, Osinbajo’s humorous yet reflective commentary on the delicate role of vice presidents caught the attention of the audience.
“Every action you take is likely to be misinterpreted — if you walk behind your boss, they say you’re not cooperating; if you walk beside him, they say you think you’re equal; and if you walk in front, they say you feel superior,” he quipped, recalling words from former Kano Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje.
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Osinbajo also explained the titles commonly used for past vice presidents, pointing out that the most accurate terms should be “immediate past,” “former,” or “one-time” vice president — depending on their tenure.
Shehu’s book, according to Osinbajo, is more than just a memoir. It’s a “textbook” for future media advisers, drawing from the author’s rich experience as a journalist and presidential aide.
“Experience is not always the best teacher — history is a kinder one,” Osinbajo said, applauding Shehu for documenting lessons that will guide others who serve in Nigeria’s often turbulent corridors of power.
The former vice president avoided diving into specific controversies raised in the book, such as the fallout between the vice president’s office and the presidency. However, he praised Shehu’s honesty in recounting how his job ended unexpectedly — including a moment when he was told by NTA that his resignation would be announced, even though he hadn’t resigned.
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The book, According to the President, provides in-depth reflections on the Buhari years and offers readers a rare view of power, communication and crisis within Nigeria’s highest office.
“It is a fair and objective analysis of those times,” Osinbajo concluded.
