Atiku Abubakar berates President Tinubu's economic policies, offers alternatives

In a pointed critique, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, describing them as hasty and poorly planned. 

Atiku, who served as Vice President from 1999 to 2007 and was the 2023 Presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), voiced his concerns over the Tinubu administration’s approach to Nigeria’s current economic challenges, calling for more substantial and actionable strategies to address the nation’s needs.

Atiku’s response follows an initial exchange on economic policy, where he highlighted what he describes as a sharp contrast between his own comprehensive recovery plan and the administration’s reactive strategies. 

"Like many fellow Nigerians, I believe we are in this economic turmoil due to the Tinubu administration’s rush to power, lacking a coherent plan," he stated.

The former Vice President also questioned the effectiveness of Tinubu’s administration, which he claims has relied on symbolic actions, including a national prayer led by the First Lady. 

"Isn’t it fascinating how the so-called 'tested' Tinubu administration’s only policy response is a national prayer?" he remarked, while emphasizing that diligent labour, not solely prayer, is necessary to address Nigeria's economic issues.

Reflecting on his tenure in government, Atiku referenced Nigeria’s economic performance from 1999 to 2003, claiming that during this period, the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew at an average rate of 6.59%, peaking at 15% in 2002. 

He contrasted this with the current administration’s performance, stating, "The so-called 'tested' Tinubu era has yielded a disappointing 2.8% growth."

Atiku’s statement also underscored his belief in the importance of low-taxation models for economic growth, citing examples of countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Monaco. 

"Why are we fixated on inflicting further hardship upon an already struggling populace?" he asked, emphasizing that tax-heavy policies could stifle growth instead of promoting it.

Atiku reiterated his stance on the 2023 presidential election, asserting that he did not lose the vote, but rather that it was "criminally stolen from the Nigerian people." 

He urged for greater accountability and transparency in addressing Nigeria’s pressing economic issues, stressing that a thoughtful and well-structured approach is essential for the nation’s recovery.

The statement from Atiku Abubakar adds another voice to the ongoing national debate on Nigeria's economic future, highlighting his belief that effective policy-making requires both inclusive planning and diligent implementation.