It Is Time For Atiku To Stop Wasting His Money On Things That Will Not Yield Results," Says Presidency Spokesperson

In a response issued by the presidency concerning comments made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on the removal of fuel subsidies and corruption, the presidency stated that since Atiku made his remarks after the 2023 elections, he has been continuously trying to tarnish President Tinubu's image while distracting him from the real issues his party, the PDP, is facing.

According to a report from Dokin Karfe TV, the presidency, through President Buhari's media aide, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, pointed out that Atiku's comments are driven by envy, as he failed to achieve his long-time goal of becoming president after several attempts. Moreover, Atiku is upset with the reforms President Tinubu is implementing, which they failed to pursue during their 16 years in power.

The presidency also criticized Atiku's assessment of Nigeria’s economy, stating that it clearly shows he does not fully understand the true state of the country. They highlighted that Atiku and his party were unable to make any significant reforms in the oil sector during their time in office. Therefore, it is necessary for the current government to adopt urgent and beneficial measures to address Nigeria's economic challenges. President Tinubu's proactive approach to tackling these issues right from day one was cited as an example of effective leadership.

Additionally, the statement continued, "We are waiting for Atiku to commend President Tinubu for his efforts in boosting domestic revenue without solely relying on oil revenues. Also, for the introduction of a minimum wage of N70,000 to N85,000, which was agreed upon for workers."

The presidency also reminded Atiku that during the Obasanjo-Atiku administration, they prevented private investors from putting in $160 million and $102 million into the Fatakol and Kaduna refineries in 2007, which later collapsed. Furthermore, Atiku was also responsible for overseeing the privatization of government-owned assets, most of which are now defunct.

"It is surprising that a man who is surrounded by corruption allegations, with his wife under investigation and his business partner, William Jefferson, sentenced to 13 years in prison, is the one now lecturing us on corruption," the statement continued.

The presidency further pointed out that Nigeria has been gradually removing fuel subsidies since 1978, with fuel prices being increased 22 times from 1978 to 2020. It would be more fitting for Atiku to acknowledge President Tinubu's efforts in reviving and modernizing the economy rather than opposing necessary reforms, especially since he himself knows that the complete removal of fuel subsidies is inevitable.

After the subsidy removal, the government took steps to alleviate the hardship on citizens by distributing food aid and direct financial transfers through bank accounts, benefiting over 20 million Nigerians. Furthermore, the administration has introduced various infrastructural development plans, such as student loan schemes for tertiary and secondary education and a program to promote the use of CNG-powered vehicles within the first 12 months.

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