Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over what he described as worsening hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship across Nigeria.
In a statement released through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku faulted recent comments from the presidency that appeared to present the country’s debt situation in a positive light. He argued that such claims do not reflect the daily struggles of citizens facing severe economic pressure.
He said it was troubling that government officials would highlight debt figures at a time when many Nigerians can barely afford basic meals. According to him, there is a growing gap between official statements and the harsh realities experienced by ordinary families.
Atiku also described the current security situation as deeply worrying, noting that movement across many parts of the country has become risky. He said families now live in fear as cases of kidnapping continue to rise, with ransom payments becoming a painful reality for many households.
He further linked the worsening security situation to the food crisis, explaining that repeated attacks on farming communities have forced many farmers away from their land. This, he said, has reduced food production and contributed to rising prices and widespread hunger.
While acknowledging that borrowing can play a role in national development, Atiku insisted that Nigeria’s current debt profile has not translated into meaningful improvement in the lives of citizens. He maintained that the benefits of such borrowing are not visible on the ground.
He concluded by accusing the government of focusing more on public relations than real solutions, calling for urgent and practical steps to address the growing challenges of insecurity and economic hardship affecting the country.
