Mounting Hardship: Nigerians Support Atiku’s Criticism of Tinubu’s Fiscal Strategy

In a wave of public frustration over economic hardship, Nigerians have voiced strong support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Atiku, who ran against Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, pointed to policy missteps he believes are exacerbating Nigeria’s economic woes. According to Atiku, the hasty implementation of the Tinubu administration’s economic strategies has led to increased hardship for the Nigerian population.

In his response to the presidency’s dismissal of his critiques, Atiku stressed that his administration would have taken a more measured approach. He particularly criticized the government’s handling of fuel subsidy removal and its fiscal policies, stating that these choices have placed undue burdens on Nigerians. “We cannot tax our way out of this economic quagmire,” Atiku remarked, adding that similar global economies have thrived by encouraging growth through low taxes.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga defended the administration’s actions, claiming that Atiku’s proposals were lacking detail and suggesting that his leadership might have worsened the economic situation. Atiku, however, dismissed these counterclaims, criticizing the Tinubu administration’s reliance on what he described as inadequate solutions, including the recent call for a national prayer led by the First Lady and National Security Adviser.

Amid public debates, several prominent Nigerians have voiced support for Atiku’s critique. Mallam Sabiu Fago, a Katsina-based educationist, described a dire economic situation with citizens struggling to afford basic necessities. Similarly, Yusuf Shehu, a former lawmaker, questioned the removal of the fuel subsidy without alternative support measures, calling the move “thoughtless.” He argued that since Tinubu’s May 29 announcement on subsidy removal, Nigerians have faced continuous hardship with little sign of improvement.

Fears of escalating tensions have grown as the cost of staple foods skyrockets. Community leaders, including Dr. Pogu Bitrus, president of the Middle Belt Forum, and lawyer Marcellus Onah, have called on the government to urgently address the spiraling economic crisis and avoid potential unrest. They highlighted that poverty, hunger, and insecurity are taking a toll on everyday Nigerians and criticized the current administration’s handling of fiscal policy.

Atiku’s supporters contend that Nigeria’s economic downturn was exacerbated by Tinubu’s administration’s policy choices. As pressures mount, they urge the government to consider alternative policies and focus on resolving the immediate hardships faced by citizens, warning that without intervention, the situation could escalate further.