Ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of instigating public outrage and orchestrating street protests against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The accusations come amid growing criticism from Atiku, who has repeatedly condemned the government’s economic policies and handling of public dissent, sparking heated exchanges in the nation’s political arena.
Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has remained outspoken on the economic direction taken by Tinubu’s government since his electoral defeat.
He recently labeled the administration’s approach as “trial-and-error,” accusing it of implementing multiple, aggressive reforms without adequate consideration for the economic burden on Nigerians. Atiku argued that the government’s policies have led to a “palliative economy,” warning that simultaneous reforms could destabilize the economy further.
In response, the APC has criticized Atiku’s remarks, suggesting his intentions are to incite unrest among citizens. According to Bayo Onanuga, APC’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Atiku’s proposals lack substance and were ultimately “rejected by voters during the 2023 elections.” Onanuga added that an Atiku-led administration would likely have been detrimental to Nigeria.
Reacting to APC’s accusations, Atiku took to social media to clarify his position. He claimed, “the election was criminally stolen from the Nigerian people,” a sentiment that resonates with opposition supporters who argue that the 2023 electoral process was tainted by malpractice.
Atiku further emphasized his support for Nigerians’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, pointing out that efforts to curb public assembly are unconstitutional and undermine democratic values. Referencing Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, he reinforced citizens’ rights to assemble and protest without fear of reprisal.
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