Former Vice-President and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has criticized President Bola Tinubu's governance, stating that Nigerians are eager to escape the economic hardship, insecurity, and bad governance that characterized his administration. Atiku likened Tinubu's administration to Biblical Egypt, saying Nigerians are desperate to escape from it. He made these comments in a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
Atiku expressed concern over Tinubu's comparison of fuel subsidy relief to asking Moses to return to Egypt, saying it shows how little he understands the suffering of Nigerians. He stated that Tinubu boasted of removing the subsidy on his first day in office "like a wicked king recounting the suffering he had inflicted as a triumph." Atiku emphasized that Tinubu's administration has imposed hardship on Nigerians, and they are seeking relief.
Atiku highlighted the struggles of Nigerians under Tinubu's administration, stating that families are cutting meals, workers spend their salaries on transport, and businesses struggle to keep their lights on. He said Tinubu's governance style is similar to that of Pharaoh, Herod, and Ahab, who were deaf to the cries of the people and proud of the hardship they imposed. Atiku emphasized that Nigerians need practical relief, not metaphors or stories.
Atiku proposed a plan to make life affordable again, which includes providing limited, budgeted support to verified petroleum products refined in Nigeria and sold to Nigerians. He suggested that imported fuel should receive no support and that independent auditors should track every naira to ensure the benefit reaches consumers in the price they pay. Atiku emphasized that if this plan does not lower fuel prices, it will have failed its purpose.
Atiku also criticized Tinubu's handling of security, stating that his failure on this issue cannot be attributed to his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari. He emphasized that Tinubu took the oath to protect Nigerians, but his administration has failed to confront killers, rescue abducted persons, and make it possible for people to travel, farm, work, and sleep without fear. Atiku stated that Nigerians expect their President to provide security and protect their lives.
Atiku highlighted the plight of police officers, stating that a retired Assistant Superintendent receives ₦29,000 a month, while serving officers draw down their pension savings to feed their families. He emphasized that Tinubu should address the concerns of police officers, including providing a pension they can live on, acting on the Police Exit Bill, and reviewing serving officers' salaries. Atiku stated that police officers who protect Nigerians should receive fair pay, healthcare, and retirement security.
Atiku concluded by stating that Tinubu's administration has made life expensive, but he promises to make life affordable again if elected. He emphasized that Nigerians deserve affordable fuel, safe communities, and police officers who can serve without sacrificing their families' future. Atiku's statement is a call to action for Nigerians to demand better governance and leadership from their President.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar criticizes President Bola Tinubu's governance and promises to make life affordable again if elected.
- Atiku proposes a plan to provide limited, budgeted support to verified petroleum products refined in Nigeria and sold to Nigerians.
- Atiku criticizes Tinubu's handling of security and the plight of police officers.
