The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the economic strategies proposed by former Vice President and presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, labelling them as outdated and ineffective.
In a recent statement, Atiku outlined what he termed alternative strategies to address Nigeria’s economic decline and alleviate the financial struggles faced by citizens. However, the APC responded on Monday, criticizing these proposals as merely recycled ideas.
Felix Morka, the national publicity secretary of the ruling party, expressed disappointment in Atiku’s suggestions, referring to them as a “disappointing rehash” of the same ineffective policies that contributed to the country’s struggles during the PDP’s long tenure in power.
The APC’s statement noted, “Since his electoral defeat in 2023, Atiku Abubakar has been restless, continually attacking every policy initiative put forth by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His recent proposal of what he would have done differently to tackle Nigeria’s challenges and transform the nation further underscores his disconnection from reality.”
Morka criticized Atiku for acknowledging the need to eliminate fuel subsidies and multiple exchange rate systems while offering nothing new in terms of practical implementation. “His plan merely reiterates old, ineffective strategies that have historically led to corruption, inefficiency, and economic stagnation under successive PDP administrations.”
The ruling party argued that Atiku’s proposals fail to recognize the complex realities and urgent needs of the current economic landscape. “His slow-paced approach to subsidy removal and foreign exchange reforms has already been attempted and proven ineffective,” Morka stated. “This model merely benefits opportunists who exploit the system.”
Furthermore, the APC called Atiku’s proposed Economic Stimulus Fund and Infrastructure Development Unit vague, lacking clarity and actionable implementation strategies. Although Atiku presents a five-point agenda aimed at unity, economic rebuilding, and education reform, the details of how these objectives would be accomplished remain unclear.
The APC asserted that Atiku’s outdated policy prescriptions pale in comparison to the robust economic framework being enacted by President Tinubu’s administration. “Atiku continues to mislead Nigerians while inciting protests against the reforms that are essential for the nation’s recovery, reforms he contributed to undermining during his years as Vice President.”
Acknowledging the inevitability of price increases resulting from the implementation of a unified exchange rate and subsidy removal, the APC criticized Atiku for failing to offer solutions to mitigate these effects.
“President Tinubu is dedicated to pursuing bold, innovative policies that confront Nigeria’s complex challenges at their core,” the statement emphasized. The ongoing reforms are designed to stabilize the economy, attract investment, and foster growth while lifting millions out of poverty and ensuring inclusive development.
The APC concluded by urging Nigerians to reaffirm their support for President Tinubu’s administration, expressing confidence that despite the current economic difficulties, brighter days lie ahead for the nation.
