Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the Tinubu administration over insecurity and economic hardship, accusing the government of shifting responsibility onto ordinary Nigerians instead of addressing the country’s challenges.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku faulted recent comments suggesting that some kidnapping incidents occur because people ignore security warnings against travelling at night.
According to him, the responsibility for protecting lives and property rests solely with the government and not citizens.
“The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property.”
Atiku questioned whether Nigerians were now expected to limit their movements because of growing insecurity across the country.
He argued that citizens should be able to travel, work and conduct legitimate activities without fear of attacks from criminals.
The former vice president pointed to ongoing security challenges in several states, including incidents of banditry, kidnapping and violent attacks, insisting that the situation cannot be dismissed as mere perception.
“A nation cannot prosper when its people are told that safety ends at sunset.”
Beyond security concerns, Atiku also accused the administration of being disconnected from the economic realities facing millions of Nigerians.
He said rising inflation, high food prices, unemployment and declining purchasing power have continued to place enormous pressure on households across the country.
The opposition leader further rejected claims that the media was responsible for negative perceptions about the country, arguing that journalists are only reporting realities experienced by citizens.
“Blaming journalists for reporting insecurity and hardship is like blaming a thermometer for a fever.”
Atiku maintained that Nigerians are more interested in practical solutions than explanations, urging the government to focus on addressing insecurity and economic hardship.
His remarks come amid continued national debate over the state of the economy and security under the current administration.
Source: Statement by Atiku Abubakar via Phrank Shaibu
