Nigeria’s Debt Not Improving Lives — Atiku Attacks Tinubu’s Govt

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over rising insecurity and worsening economic conditions in the country, alleging that Nigerians now treat ransom payments like routine household expenses.

Atiku made the remarks in a statement issued on Thursday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.

He argued that the presidency’s comparison of Nigeria’s debt profile with other African countries reflects a disconnect from the daily struggles of citizens.

“It is both astonishing and insulting that at a time when millions of Nigerians can barely afford one meal a day, the presidency is celebrating debt figures as though indebtedness were an achievement.

“In many parts of Nigeria today, travelling by road has become a gamble with death. Families go to bed praying not to receive midnight calls announcing the abduction of loved ones,” he said.

He further lamented that ransom payments have become a normal part of survival for many households.

“Ransom payments have become as routine as school fees and house rent in many homes,” Atiku said.

The former Vice President also attributed declining agricultural output to insecurity, noting that farmers can no longer safely access their farmlands due to attacks by armed groups.

“As a result, food production has declined sharply, leading to hunger, rising prices, and widespread hardship,” he added.

While acknowledging that borrowing can be beneficial when properly managed, Atiku argued that Nigeria’s rising debt has not translated into improved living conditions for citizens.

He also accused the government of prioritising propaganda over addressing pressing economic and security challenges, calling for urgent action to prevent further deterioration.