Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns about the current administration’s commitment to strengthening democracy in Nigeria. Atiku claimed that President Bola Tinubu allegedly has no plans to promote democracy and instead has an alleged plan to make the 2027 general elections a “combat and a fight.”
In a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku criticized the government for allegedly undermining the credibility of political leaders who recently participated in a summit in Abuja. The summit, held to discuss ways to advance democracy in Nigeria, was reportedly dismissed by the government.
The statement referenced posts made on X (formerly Twitter) by Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Public Communication. Atiku expressed concerns over the tone of the posts, which he claimed were an indication of the administration’s approach to the upcoming elections. One post reportedly focused on the imposition of tariffs by President Trump’s administration, while the other criticized political leaders who are working to strengthen democracy in Nigeria.
Atiku’s response pointed out the apparent attempt to discredit the actions of those striving to foster democracy and good governance. He emphasized that the goal of the summit was to promote credible elections and ensure democracy is the vehicle for progress and social justice in the country. Atiku found it troubling that the Tinubu administration would label these efforts as “Machiavellian inclinations,” suggesting an unhealthy approach to democratic opposition.
Additionally, Atiku condemned the remarks made by Sunday Dare regarding the international tariff war, particularly the potential impact of President Trump’s “America First” policy on Nigeria’s relationship with the United States and other global partners. Atiku viewed these statements as reckless, especially in light of the complex international trade dynamics that could affect Nigeria’s relations with the U.S. and other countries.
Atiku also expressed frustration over what he described as the current administration’s divisive tactics, which he believes have deepened ethnic, religious, and social divisions within Nigeria. He criticized the government for allegedly creating a class-based hierarchy with different access levels to social infrastructure, which he argued undermines national unity.
He concluded by urging the Tinubu administration to adopt a more unifying approach and prioritize the “Nigeria First” philosophy, promoting patriotism and healing the nation rather than focusing on self-entitlement and divisive sentiments.
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