Nigeria is divided under your watch- Atiku fires at Tinubu

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to genuinely prioritize national unity and the well-being of Nigerians, urging it to adopt a “Nigeria First” approach in its governance.

Atiku expressed concerns over the nation’s increasing socio-political divisions since Tinubu assumed office.

In a statement released by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku criticized the administration’s approach to opposition, describing it as a “snatch and grab” agenda lacking a clear plan to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. He emphasized the need for the government to align its actions with its proclamations of patriotism.

“We urge the government to practice what it preaches by embracing the Nigeria First ideals in replacement of the self-entitled and other primordial sentiments it panders to,” the statement read. Atiku highlighted the deepening class, ethnic, and religious divisions under the current administration, urging a shift towards inclusivity and national cohesion.

The former Vice President also addressed recent comments from President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Public Communication, Sunday Dare, who criticized political leaders advocating for democratic strengthening in Nigeria. Atiku described such remarks as indicative of the administration’s intent to suppress opposition and maintain power through undemocratic means.

“If the Tinubu administration could describe opposition in a democracy in the language of the era of Dark Ages, we find such behavior as unbecoming and a stark attack on the collective impression of our hard-won democracy and the fundamental human rights that it guarantees,” Atiku stated.

He further condemned the administration’s stance on international trade policies, particularly in light of comments supporting protectionist measures. Atiku warned against careless remarks that could strain Nigeria’s relations with other countries and international trade partners.

Atiku’s critique underscores the ongoing political tension between the current administration and opposition figures, reflecting broader concerns about governance, national unity, and democratic principles in Nigeria.