Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed strong disapproval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent address aimed at addressing the concerns of protesters.
Atiku contends that President Tinubu’s Sunday morning broadcast, which was intended to mitigate public dissent over his administration’s ineffective governance, completely misses the point and is fundamentally lacking in credibility.
In a statement released by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, the former Vice President attributed the nation’s ongoing economic turmoil to the trial-and-error policies implemented by the Tinubu administration.
He stated, “The President’s speech overlooks the urgent economic struggles that have afflicted Nigerian families since the onset of his leadership. This address fails to provide any immediate, practical solutions for the citizens. Given the widespread attention on the protests and the threats from government officials towards demonstrators, one would have anticipated that President Tinubu would propose significant reforms, particularly those aimed at addressing the excessive costs of governance.”
Atiku lamented, “Regrettably, no such proposals were presented. The President overlooked the protesters’ demands for actions such as halting the purchase of new aircraft for the presidency, reducing the oversized cabinet, or even abolishing the costly office of the First Lady, who has been engaging in lavish trips funded by taxpayers.”
He further criticized the President for not gaining the trust of Nigerians, remarking that it is unfortunate his statements lack depth and fail to acknowledge the protesters’ concerns.
“Atiku remarked, “In his underwhelming recorded message, President Tinubu provided a shallow overview of his so-called reforms, demonstrating his weak grasp of policy as he failed to persuade his audience. While the President has spoken, it is disheartening that his words lack meaningful content and respect for the protesters’ feelings, resulting in diminished faith among Nigerians regarding his reform agenda—if one is even in place.”
He urged the President and his team to recognize their failures over the past 14 months, dismissing the unfounded notion that the protests are instigated by opposition forces. “This administration has faltered on all levels, including the basic task of maintaining confidentiality for presidential speeches.”
Atiku pointed out, “Presidential addresses are usually shared under embargo with media outlets. However, the early leak of this speech, allowing Nigerians to follow along in real-time, starkly highlights the waning confidence in this administration.”
He concluded, “The opposition did not create the economic crisis we currently face; this predicament is entirely a consequence of the Tinubu administration’s flawed policies. It is time for them to cease the blame game and confront the reality of their shortcomings.”
