Atiku Criticizes Tinubu’s Governance: Calls for Focus on Economic Hardship Over Political Attacks
By Wisdom Tide
November 12, 2024
Introduction
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s approach to governance, particularly his economic policies, which Atiku claims are worsening living conditions for Nigerians. Instead of addressing these issues, Atiku argues, the Tinubu administration appears more focused on attacking political opponents. In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku expressed his concerns following a recent statement from the Presidency.
Unfulfilled Promises on Import Duties and Rising Inflation
Atiku highlighted Tinubu's unimplemented pledge to lift import duties on essential goods, a measure intended to last for 150 days. He noted that, over 120 days later, no action has been taken, leaving Nigerians to face escalating prices. According to Atiku, food inflation now surpasses 40%—the highest in decades—demonstrating the administration’s ineffectiveness in delivering on promised policies.
“The blatant disregard for a declared policy by Tinubu’s appointees and the finance ministry's delay in issuing a gazette after more than four months underscores the incompetence and disregard for due process within this administration,” Atiku stated.
Policy Inconsistencies and Lack of Preparedness
Atiku accused Tinubu of lacking readiness for office, pointing to a series of inconsistent policies. He cited the sudden removal of the petrol subsidy as a clear example of acting without planning. After widespread backlash, Tinubu introduced a compressed natural gas (CNG) initiative, but Atiku argued that even this measure was poorly thought out and has yet to gain traction due to inadequate gas infrastructure across the country.
“Tinubu's abrupt actions reveal an unprepared leader,” Atiku remarked. “The consequences are now visible in escalating transportation and food costs.”
Questioning Exchange Rate Assumptions and Transparency Issues
Atiku further criticized Tinubu’s economic projections, noting the unrealistic assumptions in his mid-term expenditure framework, such as a forecasted exchange rate of N700/$1 for 2024. Atiku contended that these projections are far removed from reality and called for greater transparency from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), urging it to release financial statements for 2023 to clarify the true status of Nigeria’s foreign reserves.
Security Concerns: A Call for Focus on National Safety
In his statement, Atiku also voiced concerns over Nigeria’s security challenges, highlighting the emergence of a new terror organization, Lakurawa, as recently reported by the military. He criticized Tinubu’s decision to prioritize political allegiances over national security, appointing loyalists to key security and economic positions instead of qualified professionals. Atiku emphasized that strong security is essential for attracting investment and maintaining stability in the country.
“By putting allies in key economic and security roles, Tinubu risks compromising the effectiveness of critical sectors. Even former President Buhari did not act with such blatant favoritism,” Atiku remarked.
Critique of Infrastructure Priorities
Atiku expressed disapproval over Tinubu's allocation of over $13 billion to the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project, suggesting that this controversial initiative displaces Lagos residents while other pressing infrastructure needs go underfunded. Atiku characterized this decision as financially irresponsible, given the nation’s revenue constraints.
A Warning Against Growing Frustration Among Nigerians
Reflecting on recent protests, Atiku noted that some Nigerians have even begun waving Russian flags and calling for military intervention—a worrying sign of public discontent. He urged Tinubu to address the nation’s economic challenges rather than dismiss the opposition, warning that such frustrations, if ignored, could escalate further.
“The discontent among Nigerians is a sign that Tinubu’s administration needs to urgently pivot towards solutions that improve citizens' lives rather than escalate political hostilities,” Atiku emphasized. He concluded that Tinubu should focus on alleviating hardships and avoiding the “fiddling while the country burns” approach, adding that the President has a limited window to act before Nigerians lose all confidence in his leadership.
Conclusion
Atiku Abubakar’s criticisms underscore the urgency of redirecting focus towards alleviating economic challenges and enhancing security. As Nigerians grapple with inflation, high food costs, and rising discontent, Atiku calls on President Tinubu to prioritize governance and heed the voices of those impacted by these crises.
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