Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu over the rising cost of living and persistent insecurity in Nigeria, accusing his administration of making life increasingly difficult for citizens.
Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said many Nigerian families were struggling to afford basic necessities while living with fears of kidnapping and violent attacks.
The former vice president made the remarks in a post on his X handle on Wednesday, where he appealed to eligible voters to collect and safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of future elections.
“My fellow Nigerians, young and old, I know the pain you are carrying,” Atiku wrote.
Atiku Highlights Economic Hardship Facing Nigerian Families
Atiku expressed concern over the financial difficulties confronting households across the country, noting that parents were increasingly worried about how to feed their children.
He also highlighted the challenges facing pensioners, saying some were being forced to choose between purchasing food and paying for medication.
According to the ADC chieftain, many young Nigerians are also struggling to make ends meet despite working hard, as rising transport fares, rent and other essential expenses continue to consume their earnings.
He argued that the combination of economic hardship and insecurity had placed additional pressure on families already struggling to meet their daily needs.
“No family should have to face hunger and insecurity at the same time. We cannot allow this hardship and fear to become the future our children inherit,” he said.
Atiku Raises Concerns Over Kidnappings and Insecurity
Beyond the rising cost of living, Atiku expressed concern over insecurity in different parts of Nigeria, particularly the threat posed by kidnappings and attacks.
He said families were increasingly worried about the safety of their loved ones, stressing that Nigerians deserved to live in an environment where they could pursue their livelihoods without constant fear.
The former vice president called for a country where citizens could enjoy safety, dignity and hope, arguing that hunger and insecurity should not become conditions Nigerians are forced to accept as normal.
His comments come amid continued public concerns over the cost of essential goods and the safety of communities across the country.
Atiku Urges Nigerians to Collect PVCs
Atiku also used his message to encourage eligible voters to collect and protect their Permanent Voter Cards, describing the documents as important instruments for political participation.
He urged Nigerians across different generations to take an active role in the democratic process and use their votes to express their preferences and demand political change.
According to him, the PVC provides citizens with an opportunity to make their voices heard through the ballot.
The ADC presidential candidate framed his appeal around the need for collective action to build a country where families can afford basic necessities and live without fear.
‘Bola Made Life Expensive’ — Atiku
In a direct criticism of Tinubu’s administration, Atiku said he would work towards making life more affordable and restoring security for Nigerians.
“Bola made life expensive. I will work to make life affordable again and restore the security every Nigerian deserves,” he stated.
The remark underscores Atiku’s criticism of the current administration’s handling of economic pressures and insecurity, while presenting affordability and public safety as priorities for his political agenda.
He concluded by urging Nigerians from different age groups to unite in pursuit of a country where families can live with dignity, safety and hope.
Atiku’s statement combines criticism of the Tinubu administration with a call for greater voter participation, placing economic relief and security at the centre of his appeal to Nigerians.