The Presidency has slammed former Vice President and opposition leader Atiku Abubakar, accusing him of being resentful over President Bola Tinubu’s win in the 2023 election.
The statement was issued by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, in response to Atiku’s recent suggestions for economic reforms, shared under the title “What We Would Have Done Differently.”
According to the Presidency, Atiku seems more focused on undermining Tinubu rather than helping to resolve issues within his own party. The statement suggested that Atiku may be envious, as he has tried and failed to win the presidency six times.
The Presidency also criticized Atiku’s proposed economic reforms as impractical, stating that his approach shows a lack of understanding of Nigeria’s current economic problems.
They argued that Nigeria needs immediate, decisive action rather than the slow consultation process Atiku proposes. Tinubu, the statement noted, has implemented various reforms, including fuel subsidy removal, which is aimed at stabilizing the economy.
Furthermore, the Presidency dismissed Atiku’s suggestion to privatize Nigeria’s oil refineries, calling it an ineffective solution. Instead, they highlighted Tinubu’s plan to rehabilitate refineries and support new ones, which they believe will help control fuel prices and reduce dependency on foreign fuel.
In conclusion, the Presidency urged Atiku to avoid distracting political debates and instead focus on constructive dialogue, insisting that Tinubu’s administration is committed to reforms that will benefit all Nigerians.