Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his recent remarks about confronting political opponents, urging him to focus instead on addressing Nigeria’s growing economic and security challenges.
In a statement released on Wednesday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the President’s comments as a distraction from the pressing issues affecting millions of Nigerians. His reaction followed Tinubu’s declaration on Tuesday that he was ready to “wrestle” his political opponents to the finish ahead of the 2027 general election.
Atiku argued that the President’s response came at the wrong time, noting that the remarks were made while addressing members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, who had appealed for credible, transparent and peaceful elections. According to him, the occasion required reassurance and statesmanship rather than combative political rhetoric.
The former Vice President maintained that Tinubu should concentrate on solving the country’s worsening problems instead of engaging in political battles. He listed rising inflation, widespread hunger, unemployment, insecurity and the declining economy as urgent issues requiring the President’s full attention.
“Mr President, you are a drowning man. Wrestle with your failures, not your opponents,” Atiku said.
He further stated that Nigerians are more concerned about the government’s performance than political declarations, arguing that speeches and slogans cannot improve the economy or reduce the hardship faced by citizens.
According to Atiku, the administration’s greatest challenge is not the opposition but its own record in office, insisting that many Nigerians continue to struggle with rising living costs, insecurity and economic uncertainty.
He also reminded the President that elections are determined by voters through the ballot box, stressing that democratic leadership is earned through competence, accountability and measurable results rather than confrontational statements.
Atiku concluded by urging Tinubu to devote the remainder of his tenure to tackling the nation’s pressing challenges, saying Nigerians are looking for effective leadership capable of improving their lives rather than political grandstanding.
