Quick Summary:
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar accuses President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of hypocrisy and historical distortion over comments on privatization and economic management.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of hypocrisy, historical distortion, and political desperation, following the president’s recent remarks about his credentials and economic record.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described Tinubu’s comments as a “reckless tirade” that exposes “a troubling pattern of hypocrisy and historical amnesia.”
Tinubu’s Remarks Spark Response
President Tinubu had earlier criticised Atiku’s credentials and his handling of the economy during his tenure as vice president.
Reacting, Atiku expressed astonishment that a president who has faced persistent questions over his own academic records would attempt to discredit others with well-documented public service histories.
Privatization Debate Reignited
Atiku’s camp argued that Tinubu’s criticism of Nigeria’s privatization programme collapses under scrutiny, recalling that the president had previously opposed the very reforms he now appears to be implementing.
The statement noted that Atiku had long advocated the privatization of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the sale of refineries to credible private investors, a position Tinubu reportedly resisted at the time.
However, it alleged that the current administration is now commercializing the national oil company “in opacity”, without clear valuation or transparency, and with questions over who truly benefits.
Atiku Questions Tinubu’s Credibility
The statement further took aim at Tinubu’s educational background, accusing him of misrepresenting his academic history.
He added that if Tinubu were properly educated, he would have reviewed the privatization records in the presidency or consulted Nasir El-Rufai’s book, The Accidental Public Servant, which documented the privatization programme as a structured effort to dismantle inefficiency and promote private sector-led growth.
“Reform Requires Courage”
Atiku’s camp concluded that Tinubu’s remarks were made in ignorance of established facts, arguing that the president’s current policies contradict his past positions.
