Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed disappointment in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying it has shown little preparedness in tackling the significant challenges facing Nigeria. Speaking through his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku argued that the government’s delayed response to the struggles of ordinary Nigerians highlights its lack of readiness for governance from the start.
Atiku pointed out that if the administration had been truly prepared, it wouldn’t have taken widespread protests for it to recognize the desperate conditions many Nigerians are enduring. He emphasized that the mandate given to Tinubu was based on the promise of change and improvement, particularly after the shortcomings of the previous administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari.
“The economy suffered under Buhari, going into recession twice, and the administration was criticized for its poor economic management, widespread corruption, and nepotism,” Atiku said. “Unfortunately, what we are witnessing now under Tinubu is even worse. The divisions that existed under Buhari have deepened, and the struggles of everyday Nigerians have intensified.”
Atiku expressed concern about the rising cost of living, noting that basic food items remain expensive due to ongoing insecurity that prevents farmers from returning to their fields. He questioned how the government could expect food prices to drop when the root causes of the problem, such as insecurity, remain unaddressed.
One of Atiku’s main criticisms centered around the much-anticipated Dangote Refinery, which has been touted as a solution to Nigeria’s fuel challenges. The refinery, which received a significant investment of $20 billion from the previous administration, was expected to meet domestic fuel needs and generate foreign exchange through exports. However, Atiku questioned why the refinery has yet to deliver on these promises.
“We were led to believe that by now, the Dangote Refinery would be up and running, providing the country with its fuel needs and boosting our economy through exports,” Atiku said. “Instead, we are left asking questions. What is really going on? Has this administration entered into agreements with foreign interests that could potentially undermine this critical investment?”
Atiku’s comments reflect growing frustration among many Nigerians who feel that the current administration has not done enough to address the country’s pressing issues. The former Vice President urged the government to take immediate and decisive action to alleviate the suffering of the people and to fulfill the promises that were made during the election campaign.
He warned that without a clear and effective strategy, the administration risks deepening the divisions and economic hardships that are already pushing the country to the brink. Atiku’s statements serve as a stark reminder that the government’s primary responsibility is to the people, and any delay in addressing their concerns can have serious consequences for the nation’s stability and prosperity.
As Nigerians continue to grapple with rising costs, insecurity, and economic uncertainty, Atiku’s criticism underscores the need for the Tinubu administration to urgently refocus its efforts on delivering tangible results. The former Vice President’s message is clear: the time for excuses has passed, and the government must now demonstrate that it is capable of leading Nigeria out of its current crises.
In conclusion, Atiku’s critique of the Tinubu administration highlights the importance of accountability and swift action in governance. With the country facing multiple challenges, the government must prioritize the needs of its citizens and work diligently to restore hope and confidence in its leadership. The Nigerian people are looking for solutions, and it is up to the current administration to prove that it is up to the task.
