“Practice What You Preach, Nigeria Divided Under You” – Atiku to Tinubu

Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to demonstrate true commitment to national unity and democratic values. Atiku accused the government of deepening divisions across ethnic, religious, and social lines rather than fostering a united Nigeria.

In a statement released by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku criticized Tinubu’s leadership approach, alleging that the administration prioritizes power retention over democratic principles. He referenced recent remarks by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Public Communication, Sunday Dare, who suggested on social media that Nigeria’s political landscape should be seen as a “combat and a fight.” According to Atiku, this reflects a continuation of the “snatch and grab” mentality rather than a genuine effort to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

Atiku also condemned the administration’s response to a gathering of political leaders advocating for credible elections and democratic progress. He described the government’s portrayal of opposition efforts as “Machiavellian” and an attack on Nigeria’s democratic values. The former vice president emphasized that democracy should serve as a tool for national progress and social justice rather than a battleground for power struggles.

Further criticizing the government’s stance on international trade, Atiku rebuked Dare’s comments on U.S. policies under former President Donald Trump, particularly the “America First” tariff strategy. He warned that such remarks could strain Nigeria’s foreign relations and international trade partnerships.

Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of implementing policies that reinforce division rather than national cohesion. He cited the classification of Nigerians into different categories for access to social infrastructure as an example of this approach. He urged the government to shift focus from partisan interests to genuine national unity, calling for policies that heal divisions and promote inclusive governance.

Concluding his statement, Atiku called on Tinubu’s administration to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and instead commit to governance that unites Nigerians, strengthens democracy, and upholds the principles of patriotism.