Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Wickedness, Denies Allegations of Bigotry, Calls for Refund on Alleged Funds

In a blistering statement, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has responded to recent allegations made by President Bola Tinubu, denying accusations of bigotry and labeling the ruling administration’s actions as “wickedness.” Atiku, who was the candidate of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 presidential election, has sharply criticized the Tinubu-led government over a range of issues, particularly focusing on allegations of financial mismanagement and the president’s links to drug trafficking.

Atiku’s comments come in the wake of remarks made by Tinubu, who had accused the former vice president of promoting divisive rhetoric. The exchange marks a continued war of words between the two political heavyweights, as Nigeria’s political landscape remains highly charged after the controversial 2023 elections.

In his response, Atiku refuted the charge that he is a bigot, insisting that he has always been committed to promoting unity and national cohesion throughout his political career. He described the accusation as unfounded and politically motivated, aimed at distracting Nigerians from the real issues facing the country.

Atiku, who has long been an advocate for inclusive governance, expressed frustration at the attempts to tarnish his reputation. He reminded Nigerians that, as a leader, he has always promoted policies aimed at fostering national unity, religious tolerance, and social harmony. The former vice president also emphasized that his political and public career has been centered around building bridges between Nigeria’s diverse ethnic, religious, and regional groups, contrary to the claims made by Tinubu’s camp.

Atiku did not hold back in his criticism of the current administration’s handling of public funds. He accused President Tinubu and his government of engaging in financial mismanagement, particularly in the context of the controversial subsidy removal and the alleged failure to refund funds linked to corrupt practices.

A major part of Atiku’s statement focused on the issue of Nigeria’s fuel subsidy removal. The former vice president questioned the government’s transparency regarding the savings from the subsidy cuts, which were intended to be redirected into social programs and infrastructure development. Atiku argued that Nigerians are yet to see any clear evidence that the funds have been properly allocated, and he demanded that the government provide a detailed account of how the funds have been used.

Furthermore, Atiku brought up the sensitive topic of drug trafficking, specifically referring to past allegations linking President Tinubu to the narcotics trade. The issue has resurfaced in public discourse due to ongoing legal challenges regarding Tinubu’s past in the United States. Atiku did not mince words, describing the president’s past as a “stain on his character” and accusing him of refusing to come clean about the funds allegedly linked to drug trafficking.

He called on the government to refund the money linked to these allegations, asserting that the Nigerian people deserve accountability, especially from the highest office in the land. Atiku’s comments seem to reignite a debate that has plagued Tinubu for years, even as the president has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

In another scathing remark, Atiku labeled the current administration’s actions as “wicked,” particularly in its handling of economic policies and the growing hardships faced by Nigerians. He expressed outrage at the government’s failure to address the escalating cost of living, unemployment, and inflation, which have made life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens.

He singled out the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to a sharp increase in fuel prices and compounded inflation across the country. While the government argues that the subsidy removal is necessary for long-term economic stability, Atiku described it as a “cruel” policy that disproportionately affects the poor and vulnerable. He criticized the Tinubu administration for failing to provide sufficient palliatives or alternatives to cushion the impact of the subsidy removal on Nigerian households.

The exchange between Atiku and Tinubu has further deepened the political divide in Nigeria, as both men represent contrasting visions for the future of the country. Atiku’s response underscores the heightened political tension that has characterized Nigerian politics since the controversial 2023 presidential election, which Tinubu won amid allegations of electoral malpractice.

While Tinubu’s government has remained focused on its economic reforms and national development initiatives, the opposition, led by Atiku and the PDP, has ramped up its criticism, accusing the president of mismanaging the country’s resources and failing to fulfill his promises to the electorate.

As both leaders continue to trade accusations, it remains to be seen how their rivalry will unfold in the coming months. For now, Atiku’s remarks add to the growing political discourse around Tinubu’s leadership, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and the future direction of the nation.