Former Vice President and presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the economic situation in the country, stating that Nigerians are struggling to survive under the current administration.
Atiku delivered his critique in a State of the Nation address shared via his official social media account on Thursday, October 1, coinciding with Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations. The opposition leader questioned the impact of the government’s economic policies, challenging the presidency to show where the promised economic relief and prosperity are.
Atiku Questions Tinubu’s Independence Day Message
In his address, Atiku directly addressed the President, questioning the narrative of progress and recovery. According to the former Vice President, the reality on the ground for millions of ordinary Nigerians contradicts the positive outlook presented by the government. He noted that high inflation, rising costs of living, and general economic instability have made basic survival difficult for citizens.
The critique comes at a time when Nigeria is navigating major economic shifts, including fuel subsidy removals and currency reforms, which the government has argued are necessary for long-term growth. However, opposition figures like Atiku maintain that these policies have been implemented without adequate safety nets, pushing more families into poverty.
Calls for Immediate Relief and Policy Adjustments
Atiku urged the federal government to reconsider its approach and implement practical measures that directly alleviate the suffering of the people. He emphasized that the primary responsibility of any government is the welfare and security of its citizens, adding that celebrations of national milestones like Independence Day ring hollow when the populace is grappling with severe hunger and deprivation.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the exchange highlights the deepening debate over Nigeria’s economic direction and the effectiveness of the current administration’s reforms in delivering tangible benefits to the public.