The ADC Presidential Campaign Council has responded to recent comments by APC spokesman Felix Morka on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. In a statement issued by its Director of Strategic Communications, Phrank Shaibu, the Council said Morka's comments did not address pressing issues affecting Nigerians. The Council argued that allegations against Atiku should not be presented as convictions. This response comes as the 2026 election season heats up in Nigeria.
The Council took issue with Morka's warning that Atiku must be kept away from the national treasury. According to the Council, this warning does not reflect Atiku's record of public service. During his first term as vice president, the administration introduced Universal Basic Education, and Atiku chaired the National Council on Privatisation. He also played a key role in the country's economic reform programme. The Council emphasized that Atiku's leadership record should be considered in the context of his contributions to Nigeria's development.
The Council also challenged the APC's claim that President Bola Tinubu raised foreign reserves from $3 billion to over $54 billion. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria, foreign reserves stood at $34.39 billion at the end of May 2023. The Council described foreign reserves as national assets and emphasized the need for transparency in managing them. This exchange highlights the ongoing debate over the management of Nigeria's economy.
On the issue of fuel subsidy, the Council said Atiku's proposal would be transparent, budgeted, and tied to petroleum products refined in Nigeria. This proposal aims to address the country's fuel subsidy regime, which has been a subject of controversy. The Council's statement suggests that Atiku's approach would prioritize transparency and accountability in the management of fuel subsidies.
The Council also addressed the Mambilla arbitration, where a tribunal questioned explanations for a $500,000 payment involving Leno Adesanya and Jennifer Douglas. However, the tribunal did not find that Atiku received bribes or used his office to secure a disputed contract. In fact, the tribunal held that there was no contract. This development has implications for Atiku's reputation and the ongoing debate over corruption in Nigeria.
The Council referenced a 2010 United States Senate report that examined transfers involving Atiku and Jennifer Douglas. However, the report did not adjudicate criminal guilt or establish that Atiku received Siemens payments to an account held by Douglas. The report also stated that no evidence was introduced at William Jefferson's trial showing Atiku sought or accepted a bribe. The Council argued that this report does not support the allegations against Atiku.
The Council concluded by saying that Atiku would answer serious questions with facts and that the campaign would focus on issues confronting Nigerians. Key issues affecting Nigerians include the cost of food, fuel, transportation, and electricity. The Council's statement suggests that Atiku's campaign would prioritize addressing these pressing concerns.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar's leadership record and contributions to Nigeria's development were highlighted by the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
- The Council challenged the APC's claims on foreign reserves and fuel subsidy, emphasizing the need for transparency.
- The Mambilla arbitration and a 2010 US Senate report were cited to counter allegations against Atiku Abubakar.
