Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has offered a harsh evaluation of President Bola Tinubu’s government as it marks its second anniversary, describing its performance as deeply disappointing and failing to meet the expectations of ordinary Nigerians. The former presidential candidate characterized the current administration as one of the most underwhelming in Nigeria’s democratic history, citing what he views as poor governance and policies that have negatively impacted citizens’ welfare.
Atiku’s critique, delivered via social media on Thursday, argued that no recent government has imposed such severe economic difficulties on the population while allegedly neglecting principles of transparency and accountability in leadership. He contended that the Tinubu administration’s approach has worsened financial struggles for Nigerians, expanded national debt burdens, and implemented measures that place disproportionate strain on lower-income citizens.
“While the federal government racks up debt, state governments have shown more discipline, reducing their debt levels from ₦5.86 trillion to ₦3.97 trillion,” Atiku observed, asserting that “the federal government, under Tinubu, is the primary driver of Nigeria’s current debt crisis.” His comments highlighted concerns about growing national debt, which he noted has surged from ₦49 trillion in 2023 to ₦144 trillion currently, with potential borrowing possibly increasing it to ₦183 trillion.
The former vice president referenced troubling international rankings to support his assessment, stating: “Apart from being the poverty capital of the world, Nigeria has under this administration emerged in the unenviable position as the capital of malnourished children in Africa, having beaten Sudan, a nation that is at war.” He pointed to Nigeria’s 18th-place ranking on the Global Hunger Index 2024 as evidence of deteriorating living conditions.
Atiku further criticized what he described as growing inequality in access to public services, arguing that “from healthcare to education to identity management and basic public services, Nigerians are now faced with class-based systems where the wealthy enjoy VIP treatment, and the rest are left behind.” His statement concluded with a stark warning: “Today, Nigeria is a nation where the rich get richer, and the poor are punished for trying to survive. This reality cannot and will not be ignored.”
The comprehensive critique from the 2023 PDP presidential candidate presents a counter-narrative to the administration’s self-assessment, coming amid ongoing economic challenges. Atiku’s remarks highlight deepening political divisions and growing public dissatisfaction with current economic conditions.
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